Belenus Champions Hospital Introduces The Knee & Robotic Surgery Clinic, With Complimentary Robotic Knee Surgery

Belenus Champions Hospital proudly launched its latest endeavor, the "Knee & Robotic Surgery Clinic," marking a significant milestone in advancing orthopedic care in Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art clinic integrates advanced robotic technology with artificial intelligence called as CORI robotic system, a first in Bengaluru, to redefine knee treatments, offering patients unprecedented precision and efficacy in surgical interventions.

Led by the esteemed Head of the Department, Dr. Nataraj H.M, a seasoned Senior Consultant renowned for his expertise in orthopedics, the clinic showcases a commitment to excellence in knee health. Dr. Nataraj H.M. brings forth a wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to enhancing patient outcomes and ensuring the highest quality of care.

"At Belenus Champions Hospital, we're thrilled to pioneer the launch of our 'Knee & Robotic Surgery Clinic,' elevating standards in orthopedic treatments with cutting-edge robotic technology. We aim to provide patients with unparalleled precision and faster recovery through state-of-the-art procedures,” stated Dr. H M Nataraj.

The clinic boasts a comprehensive range of advanced technology equipment and facilities, ensuring a holistic approach to knee care. Patients can expect personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs, optimizing recovery and mobility.

To celebrate the inauguration of this remarkable specialty clinic, Belenus Champions Hospital is proud to offer complimentary Robotic Knee Surgery for eligible patients. This initiative underlines our commitment to accessibility and innovation in healthcare.

"We're excited to offer Free Robotic Knee Surgery as part of our launch, extending our commitment to the community by making cutting-edge treatments accessible," added Dr. Kishore, Director at Belenus Champions Hospital.

Belenus Champions Hospital is a leading healthcare institution dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care across various medical specialties, committed to leveraging advanced technology and expertise for the betterment of patients' lives.

Dr. Shashidhar M, CEO of Belenus Champions Hospital, remarked, "The 'Knee & Robotic Surgery Clinic' signifies our commitment to innovation and patient-centric care. We aim to set new benchmarks in orthopedic surgery, ensuring our patients receive the best possible care." At the event, a poster was launched by patients who have undergone robotic knee replacement and Directors. 

Photo Caption: Dr Nataraj H.M - Senior Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon & HOD, Dr Manjunath - Founder & Director, Dr Shashidhar M, CEO, Belenus Champions Hospital at the launch of Knee & Robotic Surgery Clinic and poster held in the city, today.

Only 18% Borrowers Understand Data Privacy Guidelines Reflects Home Credit India’s “How India Borrows Survey 2023”

Highlights

Consumer Durable and business needs continue to be the key reason for borrowing in 2023. 

Growing acceptance of digitalisation of financial services with 29% borrowers opting for online loans; 51% desire to shift to online channels for their next loan. 

Only 18% borrowers understand the data privacy rules, majority of them (88%) with just the superficial understanding on the subject.   

In Bengaluru, 50% borrowers favour completing loan journey completely through online mediums; while 38% respondents say they trust embedded finance.  

91% people in Bengaluru are more optimistic about continued adoption of digital lending due to internet and data revolution. 

Home Credit India, a local arm of the leading global consumer finance provider launched their annual How India Borrows Survey 2023, which aims to understand the constantly evolving consumer borrowing behaviour. Since 2021, the trend in borrowing had shifted from running the household to buying consumer durable such as smartphones & home appliances (44% in 2023). While consumer durable loans decreased by 9%, business-related borrowing increased by 5%, making it a total of 19% middle class borrowing to expand or to start a new business.  

Most of the borrowers in the study are online pro, with 48% relying on online shopping for their personal purchases. 44% of these borrowers rely on online banking for financial transactions. More than half (54%) comfortable with mobile banking for day-to-day financial updates. 

Another major highlight is the growing acceptance of digitalisation of financial services. As per the HIB 2023, over one-fourth of borrowers opted for online channel for availing loans. Loans initiated through tele calling increased by 3% (from 16% in 2022 to 19% in 2023), while loans through POS/ bank branches saw a decline by 4% (from 56% to 51%). 

In line with the digital transition, more than half of the borrowers (51%) are looking forward to completing their entire future loan application on mobile App without any physical interaction with POS/ Banks. The preference for online loan mediums is primarily driven by younger and aspirational small-town borrowers, with cities like, Dehradun at 61%, Ludhiana at 59%, Ahmedabad at 56%, and Chandigarh at 52%.  

Embedded finance has gained traction in the recent years with 50% borrowers open to embrace the same during e-shopping. However, the uptake for the product among borrowers has come down by 10% from 2022 due to stringent RBI regulations on BNPL & PPI products leading to fewer offers. It is preferred as it makes borrowing faster and makes ecommerce shopping an easier process. EMI cards (49%) continue to be the most preferred medium for taking credit due to higher trust and faster disbursals. 

Speaking on the consumer study, Ashish Tiwari, Chief Marketing Officer, Home Credit India, said “At Home Credit India, we are dedicated to fostering financial literacy and empowering individuals to make informed choices. The survey not only highlights the preferences of today's borrowers but also emphasizes the need for greater awareness of data privacy. As we navigate this digital era, Home Credit remains committed to providing trustworthy, transparent and accessible financial solutions, ensuring a responsible and inclusive financial future for all." 

The HIB Study was conducted across 17 cities including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Bhopal, Patna, Ranchi, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Kochi, and Dehradun. The sample size is approx. 1842 borrowers in the age group of 18-55 years, with an average income of Rs. 31,000 per month.  

As India accelerates into the digital lending era, the study underlines a critical concern among borrowers regarding the usage of their personal data by loan companies. Only 18% borrowers understand the data privacy rules, majority of them (88%) with just the superficial understanding on the subject.  About 60% borrowers are worried about how their personal data is collected and used by the lending apps. 58% of these worried borrowers also feel that the lending apps collect more data than required. Gen Z and borrowers from smaller towns show higher concern with the amount of data being collected by lending apps. Among metros, 78% of borrowers from Chennai voice their concern about the amount of data collected.  

Regionwise, in Bengaluru, only 13% of individuals in Bengaluru claim to understand how loan companies use their personal data. Additionally, 52% of respondents express worry about their data being collected by lending apps, and 18% believe that these apps gather more information than necessary. Meanwhile, a notable 50% of borrowers express a strong inclination toward completing their entire loan journey through online platforms, reflecting a growing reliance on digital channels for financial transactions. While 38% of respondents said they would like to use embedded finance.  

Less than one-fourth (23%) of the borrowers understand about the usage of their personal data by loan apps. Borrowers from Chennai seem to be more digitally advanced and 76% of them claim to understand the usage of personal data. Almost 60% of the borrowers in India voice out that they don’t have any control on the data being shared by them, more so by borrowers from tier 1 towns.   

70% of the borrowers feel the need of transparent communication on the usage of personal data. This is mostly driven by males and Gen Z. Borrowers across geographies except South seem to have a similar opinion. 

In terms of digital literacy, 23% of the middle-class borrowers have heard/seen about the chatbot service in the past. 43% borrowers find chatbot service as easy to use, led by Women, & Gen Z. WhatsApp is an emerging digital channel for loan with 59% of borrowers having received loan messages on WhatsApp. However, only one-fourth borrowers consider loan offers received on WhatsApp as trustworthy, with Gen Z showing more trust towards this. 

As interest in financial education is growing in the country, 39% of borrowers said they would like a reputed organization to educate them about finance related tasks over the internet with GenZ showing maximum interest. Smaller towns like Ludhiana (57%), Patna (55%) and Bhopal (48%) show higher interest in financial learning.  

Ageas Federal Life Insurance Strengthens Presence Through Strategic Partnership With NKGSB Co-operative Bank

* The partnership with NKGSB Co-operative Bank Ltd focuses on Bancassurance to promote and sell insurance products. 

* The collaboration is expected to enhance AFLI’s distribution reach, contributing to the expansion of the business 

Ageas Federal Life Insurance, one of India’s most reputed private life insurance companies announced its partnership with NKGSB Co-operative Bank Ltd, a premier multi state co-operative bank. This partnership marks a significant expansion of Ageas Federal Life Insurance's distribution network, aiming to make life insurance products more accessible to a broader audience. 

Ranked among India’s top 10 best co-operative Banks, NKGSB Co-operative Bank Ltd today has 104 branches spread over the state of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. By joining forces with NKGSB Co-operative Bank, Ageas Federal Life Insurance enhances its reach and distribution capabilities. This collaboration is poised to bring the benefits of life insurance closer to customers and foster financial security across communities. 

Speaking on the partnership Mr. Vighnesh Shahane, MD and CEO at Ageas Federal Life Insurance said, “We are thrilled to partner with NKGSB Co-operative Bank in our mission to make life insurance more widely available. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing comprehensive financial protection and further strengthens our position in the market. NKGSB Co-operative Bank, known for its strong customer base and extensive network, adds a valuable dimension to Ageas Federal Life Insurance's distribution strategy. The collaboration aims to leverage the collective strengths of both entities, creating a win-win situation for customers seeking reliable life insurance solutions.” 

Mrs. Himangi Nadkarni, Chairperson at NKGSB Co-operative Bank Ltd said, “We are excited about the possibilities that this partnership brings to our customers. Teaming up with Ageas Federal Life Insurance allows us to offer a broader range of financial products and services, reinforcing our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of our valued customers." 

This collaboration highlights Ageas Federal Life Insurance's commitment to innovation, customer contentment, and extending its presence in the insurance sector. Meanwhile, Ageas Federal Life Insurance declared a net profit of INR 114 crore in FY 2022-23, a growth of 21% from the previous financial year. This is the 11th consecutive year of profit for the private Life Insurer. The company’s total premium rose by 5% to INR 2,160 crore in FY 2022-23 from INR 2,052 crore in FY2021-22. The company also has its ambitious plan of growing its topline by 40% CAGR over the next 5 years.  

EKA Mobility Joins Forces With Mitsui And VDL Group To Create A Leading Global OEM In India

* EKA, Mitsui & VDL Groep have entered a strategic long-term partnership, that will include joint investments, equity & technology cooperation 

* With a joint investment of over USD 100 million (~ INR 850 crores) in phases, the  cooperation will position India as the global manufacturing & sourcing hub for electric vehicles  

EKA Mobility, a leading electric vehicles & technology company based in India, is thrilled to announce a partnership with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Japan) and VDL Groep (Netherlands). This strategic cooperation marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Indian automotive industry, propelling India toward becoming a global hub for sustainable transportation. The alliance is set to establish most cutting edge global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the region.  

This is one of the largest and most significant partnerships in the new mobility segment in India bringing together the strengths and expertise of three leading automotive conglomerates in Asia & Europe to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative electric mobility solutions globally. Under the cooperation, EKA Mobility, known for its cutting-edge electric vehicles and comprehensive EV ecosystem, will receive significant and strategic investments from Mitsui, a global trading and investment company with a rich history of contributing to industrial innovation, and technological support & equity partnership from VDL Groep, a leading Dutch technology and manufacturing company. The combined expertise and resources of the three entities will usher in a new era of sustainable transportation and manufacturing excellence. 

Key Highlights of the cooperation: 

Strategic Investment: Mitsui & Co., Ltd. will make significant financial investments in EKA Mobility, enabling the company to scale up its manufacturing operations and expand its product portfolio. Mitsui will also provide support to EKA for exports to select emerging markets as well as establishment of systems & process.  

Technological Leadership: As part of this partnership, VDL Bus & Coach, a subsidiary of VDL Groep and Europe’s frontrunner in electric buses & coaches will support EKA Mobility by transfer of technology to produce electric buses in India for the Indian market. 

Strengthening 'Make in India': The alliance is firmly aligned with the Indian government's 'Make in India' initiative, aimed at promoting local manufacturing and job creation. 

Sustainability: The cooperation emphasizes a commitment to sustainability and environment conscious mobility solutions, furthering the reduction of carbon footprints. 

Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder & Chairman of EKA Mobility, expressed his views about the cooperation, stating, "This partnership with Mitsui and VDL Groep represents a significant step toward making India a global hub for electric vehicle manufacturing. We are proud to join forces with such distinguished partners who share our vision of sustainable, profitable & efficient transportation." 

Nobuyoshi Umezawa, GM of Mobility Business Division in Mitsui & Co. India: "Through the cooperation of EKA, VDL, and Mitsui, we aim to contribute to "Make in India" by leveraging EKA's excellent engineering and local network, and VDL's cutting-edge technological capabilities. Furthermore, we would like to utilize our Mitsui's global network to promote exporting EKA's competitive products to overseas markets and contribute to creating eco-friendly societies". 

Rolf-Jan Zweep, CEO VDL Bus & Coach: "We are delighted to partner with EKA Mobility and Mitsui. Although the basis of our high-quality development and manufacturing competences lie in north-western Europe, we see many opportunities in India, which is obviously a promising growth market. With this cooperation, we foresee especially many synergy benefits in the areas of procurement and development".   

EKA Mobility is one of the commercial vehicle manufacturers approved under the Champion OEM Scheme & EV component manufacturing scheme of the Government of India’s Auto PLI policy. EKA is the only Indian company offering end-to-end design, manufacturing & technology of new energy vehicles from scratch in India. The company has set up a state-of-the-art research, development, engineering & innovation center in Pune, Maharashtra, and has significantly grown its order book, with more than 500 electric buses and 5000+ electric light commercial vehicle orders in the pipeline. All these vehicles will be completely designed & manufactured in India, at EKA’s proposed state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. In last two years, the company has introduced electric city bus, staff carrier & school bus, 9 meter hydrogen fuel-cell electric bus, and is now all set to enter the last mile delivery with its range of e-LCVs designed & customized to suit Indian customers and businesses.  

Bank of Baroda Empowers Students With The Launch Of The “bob BRO Savings Account”

-  bob BRO is a zero balance account providing a customised bundle of offers to students to kickstart their financial journey 

- Concessional Interest Rate on Baroda Education Loan 

- BOB teams up with IIT Bombay’s Mood Indigo, Asia’s largest college festival, as the Exclusive Banking Partner, to promote bob BRO 

Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, has launched the bob BRO Savings Account - a Zero Balance Savings Account especially designed for students aged 16 to 25 years. The bob BRO Savings account provides students access to a banking programme that is customised to meet their specific needs and is easy & straightforward to operate, with no minimum balance requirement, a lifetime complimentary debit card and a number of other benefits.   

The bob Bro Savings Account comes with a bundle of offers for students including no minimum balance, up to 15 basis points interest rate concession on Education Loans, complete waiver of processing fee on education loans and a lifetime free RuPay Platinum Debit Card with exclusive offers on top brands in categories such as Electronics, Consumer Durables, Travel, Food, Fashion, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Grocery and Health. 

To tap the youth, the Bank has tied up with Mood Indigo (Moodi), IIT Bombay’s annual student fest and Asia's largest college cultural festival, as the exclusive banking partner. In its 53rd edition this year, Mood Indigo takes place from December 18th to 21st, 2023 playing host to college students from across the country.  

Bank of Baroda has also collaborated with Spotify, for all the students attending Mood Indigo. Those who open a bob BRO savings account during the festival, will have the opportunity to win a hamper of Spotify merchandise. In addition, based on the artists performing at the festival, a new playlist, ‘Bank of Baroda x Mood Indigo’, will also be available to stream on Spotify. 

Shri Ravindra Singh Negi, Chief General Manager - Retail Liabilities & NRI Business, Bank of Baroda said, “Today’s youth are looking for a richer, more personalised and rewarding experience with their bank, backed by safety and service. The bob BRO Savings Account introduces young adults to the world of banking with a tailor-made product offering that takes care of their specific banking requirements and gives them access to features & benefits that they value the most. bob BRO makes banking simple, enabling them to start their journey towards savings and financial independence with ease.”  

Shri V G Senthilkumar, Head - Marketing & Branding, Bank of Baroda said, “In a rapidly changing landscape, Bank of Baroda continues to evolve and transform to stay relevant and meaningful to a new generation of customers. We take a long-term approach to build lasting relationships that transcend generations. Our association with Mood Indigo is in line with this philosophy.” 

Bank of Baroda has also built an immersive Metaverse environment that will be showcased at Mood Indigo, where students can experience various digital payment options through virtual/ augmented reality.  

Salient features of the bob BRO Savings Bank Account: 

Zero balance savings account for the age group 16 years to 25 years 

Lifetime Free RuPay Platinum Debit Card with attractive offers on leading brands 

Complimentary Domestic Airport Lounge access (2 per quarter) 

Free Personal Accident Insurance Cover up to Rs 2 lakh 

Auto Sweep Facility available  

Free NEFT/RTGS/IMPS/UPI through digital channels and branch 

Unlimited free cheque leaves  

Free SMS/Email Alerts 

Up to 100% Concession in Demat AMC  

Concessional Interest Rates on Education Loans with zero processing fee* 

Exclusive Credit Card offers, subject to eligibility 

T&C apply 

For details on the bob BRO Savings Account and to open an account, click on bob BRO Savings Account or visit the nearest Bank of Baroda branch.  

Torque Pharma Introduces Its Newest Nutraceutical Under The Brand “Multipower”

* The product is priced at INR 110 for 10 Soft Gelatin Capsules, which is available at retail stores and online at Torqueonline.co.in 

Torque Pharma, a leading entity in the pharmaceutical industry, has introduced its “Multipower Soft Gelatin Capsules”, a Nutraceutical Endowment designed to promote health and wellbeing. This innovative product combines the advantages of Multivitamin with Calcium, Zinc, Iron, Minerals, and Ginseng. It helps to enhance immunity and energy, catering to daily nutritional requirements. 

The Multipower Soft Gelatin Capsules contains Ginseng extract, vital vitamins like vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E, B3 & minerals like Calcium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese & Zinc that addresses nutritional deficiencies. These capsules not only help in increasing energy levels and enhancing stamina, but also helps in bolstering immunity, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. It further helps in improving concentration and stress management. 

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Abhay Iqbal Singh Bedi, Director of Torque Pharma said, “We are elated to launch our latest offering, Nutraceutical under the brand ‘Multipower.’ This product signifies our dedication to improving the overall quality of life, transcending the boundaries of mere illness treatment. In addition to delivering essential nutrients like Zinc and Vitamin C, it also contributes to sharpening focus in the day-to-day activities of consumers within today's fast-paced lifestyle. We are eagerly waiting for feedback from our valued customers." 

To cater to a wider audience, Multipower Softgel Capsules are reasonably priced at INR 110, providing 10 Capsules in 1 Strip. They are accessible at nearby retail outlets and the online store - Torqueonline.co.in. 

Buy here:  https://torqueonline.co.in/product/torque-multipower-softgel-capsules/ 

About Torque Pharma:  

Founded as a generic pharmaceutical organization, Torque Pharma strides ahead with the legacy of over four decades as the torchbearers of positive change driven by unwavering ethical standards and practices. Right from our inception, we have been committed to rewriting the definition of excellence within the healthcare ecosystem. Our mission, "Better Together," is a testament to our dedication towards continuous evolution alongside the people who collectively shape our society, as we believe that “togetherness” makes the world a better place. Torque Pharma has expanded its scope into the FMCG and Ayurvedic sectors, aligning with its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare for all. Not only does Torque Pharma have a significant national presence pan India, but also internationally as its products are available in select countries. Our portfolio consists of an extensive range of products that elevate the quality of living. Join us in our journey to drive innovation, leave a lasting positive impact, and help us shape a healthier world made better together. 

Coca-Cola Extends Partnership With The International Cricket Council (ICC) For Next Eight Years

* Amplifying Global Cricket Experiences, Coca-Cola establishes itself as a long-standing partner of the ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) and Coca-Cola are thrilled to announce an eight-year global partnership encompassing ICC World events across all three formats, up until the end of 2031.

The official signing ceremony which took place at ICC’s Headquarters marked a historic milestone for the partnership and demonstrated Coca-Cola's commitment to sports. This eight-year partnership as a Global Partner of the ICC, confirmed the collaboration as one of the longest-ever associations formed by the ICC with a single brand, spanning a total timeline of 13 years (2019 - 2031). 

The relationship will see The Coca-Cola Company’s brands becoming exclusive non-alcoholic beverage partners. The agreement includes all men’s and women’s events at the pinnacle of the sport including the ICC Cricket World Cups, ICC T20 World Cups, and ICC Champions Trophies through to the end of 2031. During the course of the partnership, there will be both a major international men’s and women’s event every year as well as a World Test Championship Final every two years.

ICC Chief Commercial Officer, Anurag Dahiya said: “I am thrilled to welcome back The Coca-Cola Company as an ICC Global Partner as we enter a landmark eight-year partnership, which unites one of the world’s leading brands with the second largest sport in the world. This long-term collaboration ushers in a new commercial era, filled with exciting prospects for the sport. With the Men’s T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies, and the Women’s edition in Bangladesh just around the corner, we’re poised for unprecedented global growth and engagement. This partnership not only celebrates our sport’s expansion but also promises innovative opportunities to enhance our fans’ experience worldwide.”

Bradford Ross, VP Global Sports and Entertainment Marketing & Partnerships at The Coca-Cola Company, stated, “In alignment with our rich history of global sports partnerships, the collaboration with ICC reinforces our commitment to refreshing sports fans and elevating their entertainment experiences. Sports holds immense power to unite people, and this partnership provides us with a unique opportunity to blend our brand affinity with the fervor for the world’s cricketing game. We endeavor to continue to delight consumers with our diverse portfolio and create unique experiences for fans.” 

During the recent ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023, Thums Up and Limca Sportz were the exclusive beverage and sports drink partners, activating a host of online and offline fan engagement activations. Additionally, Sprite took center stage with its captivating 'Thand rakh' campaign, aimed at elevating and sustaining the enthusiasm of cricket fans throughout the biggest World Cup ever.

Coca-Cola has been globally committed to supporting local sporting events and organizations around the world. The Coca-Cola Company has an eight-decade-long association with the Olympics. Moreover, for over four decades, it has been associated with the FIFA, T20 World Cup, and using the power of sports to bring people together and transform lives. The recent association of ThumsUp with the Olympics and Paralympics in India is a testimony to the Company’s belief in sports and its enduring journey towards making a refreshing difference.   

About The Coca-Cola Company

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’, offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and juice beverages. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca Sportz, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water and Kinley Club Soda. Premium products constitute Schweppes range and Smartwater. In addition, it offers Costa Coffee and organic green tea based beverage- Honest Tea amongst its range of coffee and Tea. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

The company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of close to 4 million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable agriculture initiatives and carbon emission reductions across its value chain.

Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.