Global Waste Production Has Shown No Signs Of Slowing Down., Says Shaina Ganapathy, Head of Community Outreach, Embassy Group

* A Collaborative Approach for a Greener Tomorrow by Embassy Group

Global waste production has shown no signs of slowing down., says Ms. Shaina Ganapathy, Head of Community Outreach, Embassy Group on the occasion of International Day of Zero Waste Over and adds that two billion metric tonnes of municipal solid waste (MSW) are generated annually worldwide, and this number is projected to rise by approximately 70 percent by 2050. While governments and international organisations need to take steps to address this issue, it is vital to build local awareness and encourage active grassroots involvement. Above all, the scale of the environmental challenge facing us requires a collaborative and multi-stakeholder strategy.

At Embassy Group, we have implemented various green practices that foster collaboration and a holistic approach to waste management, such as:

Embassy, through a partnership with The Anonymous Indian Charitable Trust (TAICT), has been working in the Bettahalasuru Panchayat in North Bengaluru since 2016 to address the issues of irresponsible disposal of waste and the depletion of soil and water. The panchayat suffered from air, water, and soil pollution, with around 53 metric tonnes of waste per month being dumped and burned. To increase community involvement and understanding of sustainable living methods, the partners launched the EcoGram programme. EcoGram aims to create an ecologically sound, replicable model gram panchayat.

To complement the solid waste management infrastructural solutions provided in the Bettahalasuru Panchayat, we have placed an emphasis on community engagement and awareness initiatives for women and children. Bolstered by the "Ecogram Shakti Programme," the initiative empowers over 50 women from these villages to drive environmental sustainability in their communities. 

What began as a pilot project in the Tarahunise village now encompasses ten villages in the Bettahalasuru Panchayat. In 2022, Embassy built EcoHub, an integrated solid waste management centre that benefits over 4,000 households.

On the occasion of the International Day of Zero Waste, it is important to recognise the role that citizen and local-led environmental movements can play. Involving local and key stakeholders greatly increases the effectiveness of engendering systemic change and increasing accountability. Harnessing the strength of our communities and partnerships ensures that we are laying a groundwork for continued and future change.

As champions of sustainable practices, we will continue our endeavours to reduce environmental degradation and create greener communities. Our agenda is to join hands with other corporate, government bodies, and NGOs to create a culture of collaboration and corporate sustainability said Shaina Ganapathy, Head of Community Outreach, Embassy Group on the occasion of International Day of Zero Waste.

A Guide To Effectively Manage Diabetes During This Festive Season

As the crescent moon signals the arrival of Ramadan, millions around the world will embark on a month-long journey of prayer and reflection. For those with diabetes, however, this sacred period brings forth a unique set of challenges. Balancing religious obligations with health considerations can be daunting, yet essential for maintaining well-being during this holiest month of the Islamic calendar.

Fasting from dawn until sunset is a fundamental pillar of Ramadan. However, for individuals managing diabetes, this abstinence from food and drink can cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels. To sustain energy levels and nourish the body, rituals include pre-dawn meals and evening feasts. However, for individuals with diabetes, these meals require careful consideration to prevent any sudden spikes or drops. Alongside a well-balanced nutritional plan, regular monitoring is important for people living with diabetes. Accurate and real-time blood glucose readings can be constantly tracked with the help of prick-free devices like continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). This combination of a balanced diet and regular monitoring is essential for those fasting during this time, ensuring effective management of blood glucose levels throughout the holy month.

Dr Anusha Handral, MD, DM – Endocrinology, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bengaluru, said, “According to a recent ICMR study, 101 million people in India are living with diabetes, underscoring the importance of effective holistic management. Amidst the sacred observance of Ramadan, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) emerges as an ally for people living with diabetes. Through real-time tracking of blood sugar levels, CGM empowers individuals to identify and manage any glucose spikes associated with pre- and post-fast meals. By harnessing CGM insights, people can make informed diet decisions. This can help them navigate the portion sizes and meal timing along with making diabetes specific nutrition choices that can address their needs. The symbiotic relationship between CGM data and dietary decisions fosters both effective blood glucose management and sense of empowerment.”

Here are a few tips to manage your diabetes while you observe Ramadan this year:

Regularly monitor blood glucose levels: It is extremely important to consistently check your blood glucose levels. CGM devices support real-time glucose monitoring instead of capturing blood sugar levels at a particular point in time. The data is easily accessible on your smartphone, too, and can support easier decision-making related to food, physical activity, and therapy. Utilizing data from these devices can enable individuals to take corrective actions with the meal plan and maintain health during this period.

Properly recharge your body with nutrients during Iftar: According to tradition, the fast is broken with dates and fruits, which is followed by a proper balanced meal. Make sure to drink water and hydrate yourself well, and avoid highly caffeinated or sugary drinks like coffee, tea, and soft drinks. It is important to have a stable meal plan striking a balance between intake of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Have more nutrients and fiber-rich starchy foods like oats, multigrain breads, vegetables, lentils (dal), and proteins like fish, tofu, and nuts.

Additionally, you can have diabetes-specific oral nutritional supplements like Ensure Diabetes Care as an evening snack during Iftar (or even at the time of Sehri). Such scientifically formulated supplements, with high-quality protein and vital nutrients, have a slow-release energy system which helps manage one’s blood glucose, hunger, and energy levels. Consult your doctor to select the right solutions for your nutritional needs.

Keep your body moving: Physical activity is as important as proper diabetes nutrition, it also essential to maintain good health. In addition to eating right during fasting, staying fit through regular exercise is a great way to manage diabetes.[i] It's recommended to avoid overexertion and aggressive workouts (especially during the last few hours of fasting). Instead, just do simple workouts of around 30 minutes. This could include walking or yoga. 

Improve your sleep schedule: Ramadan often involves staying up late with friends and family. However, getting adequate hours of good-quality sleep is crucial in maintaining good health. It also helps people avoid sleep deprivation, which can negatively impact your hunger or craving levels. Also, sleep plays an important role in supporting immunity, metabolism, and regulating blood glucose levels, which is essential when managing diabetes.

There is never a challenge that cannot be managed with a dedicated action plan. These four simple steps can definitely help you feel healthy despite long hours of fasting.

Joy of Sustainable Mobility. Leap Welcomes 32 BMW iX In Its Exclusive Fleet

Leap, India's first sustainable luxury ground transportation provider has inducted 32 BMW iX electric vehicle into its exclusive fleet. This significant acquisition marks the largest single order of BMW iX for BMW India, underscoring its commitment towards fostering sustainable mobility. 

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India handed over the cars to Mr. Robin Mann, Managing Director, Leap at a special ceremony held at BMW Group India Training Centre.

The BMW iX effortlessly combines premium mobility with zero-emissions, sporting agility and a long operating range with luxurious spaciousness. Reduction of carbon footprint is achieved throughout the value chain and all stages of lifecycle by making comprehensive use of natural and recyclable materials and production with 100% green electricity. The BMW iX remains India's top top selling Luxury Electric Vehicle.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The BMW iX, with its unmatched sales performance, solidifies its status as the leading electric luxury vehicle in India. This impressive achievement plays a crucial role in propelling BMW Group India to the forefront of the luxury electric vehicle segment. Today marks a significant milestone as we proudly deliver 32 BMW iX electric vehicles to Leap for induction into their all-electric fleet. This delivery is not just a fulfilment of the largest single order of BMW iX vehicles for BMW India, but it symbolizes our shared commitment to sustainable mobility and luxury. Leap's pioneering vision of an all-electric luxury ground transportation network in India perfectly aligns with BMW Group India’s dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility. We are thrilled to see our BMW iX vehicles become a cornerstone of Leap's fleet, propelling forward the transformation towards a greener, more sustainable future in luxury travel.”

Mr. Robin Mann, Managing Director, Leap said, “As India’s first luxury transport service dedicated to sustainability, Leap is setting a new standard in the industry. Embracing the BMW iX into our fleet is a milestone for Leap and a testament to our vision for a greener future. We are thrilled to offer our clients the ultimate in luxury electric mobility, and we believe that this addition will enhance their travel experience while contributing to environmental conservation. The company’s all-electric fleet represents the pinnacle of safety, luxury, and innovation, offering clients a unique opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on comfort or style.”

About Leap.

Leap is India’s premier sustainable luxury ground transportation provider, offering an exceptional travel experience while fostering environmental responsibility. With a fleet of the latest all-electric luxury vehicles, Leap is dedicated to providing safe, quiet, and advanced transportation options for both retail and institutional clients.

BMW Group Electric Vehicles

BMW Group Electric Vehicles (EV) continued leadership in the luxury segment for second year in a row by registering a three-fold growth in 2023. The BMW iX remains the largest selling luxury electric vehicle in India. BMW Group continues to dominate the luxury electric market with the most versatile portfolio - BMW i7, BMW iX, BMW i4, BMW iX1 and MINI SE. Launch of the first-ever BMW i7 and first-ever BMW iX1 further elevated the enthusiasm. Robust charging infrastructure in premium segment at BMW Group dealer network in 35 cities played a vital role in ensuring user confidence. MINI 3 Door Cooper SE is the highest selling premium electric hatchback in the country.

BMW iX

Born Electric: The BMW iX is the BMW Group’s new technology flagship. It is the first BMW without any numerals in its designation. ‘iX’ stands for the first BMW electric all-wheel drive vehicle (SAV – Sports Activity Vehicle). It effortlessly combines premium mobility with zero-emissions, sporting agility and a long operating range with luxurious spaciousness. The BMW iX is available as completely-built-up unit (CBU) in two variants - the BMW iX xDrive40 and BMW iX xDrive50 and can be booked through BMW dealerships across major metropolitan cities in India as well as shop.bmw.in.

Characterised by sculptural and monolithic design, the iX represents a new face that makes mobility easier and comfortable while creating powerful presence. Interior is minimalist yet spacious with a feeling of ease and relaxation with freedom of movement giving it a lounge-like atmosphere. A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier. The Fifth generation BMW eDrive technology features a highly integrated drive unit within a single housing that is powered by two electric motors (for front and rear axles), single-speed transmission and power electronics. The iX instantly accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers/hour in 6.1 seconds with an output of 326 hp. ‘My Modes’ switch changes driving character to Personal, Sport or Efficient. BMW IconicSounds Electric creates engaging driving sounds and pedestrian alerts. Two high-voltage batteries integrated in the floor have a combined capacity of 76.6 kWh and provide a range of up to 425 kilometers.

1,000+ Co-Living And Hostel Facilities In Karnataka And Tamil Nadu Onboards 'CRIB PLUS' Property Management App

CRIB Property Solutions, a pioneering startup based in Bengaluru, has successfully onboarded over 1,000 co-living spaces and hostels in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu onto their app. Nationally, CRIB's mobile app is utilized by over 1,000 landlords with 2,500+ properties, managing over 150,000 beds and generating a rental income of over Rs 2500 crores.

CRIB is spearheading a transformative shift in the operational dynamics of co-living spaces, hostels, and similar accommodations across the country, with a significant presence in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. With its robust and efficient solution, CRIB is not only benefiting property owners and operators but also proving to be invaluable for tenants.

CRIB's software applications are meticulously designed to optimize property management, offering a cost-effective, seamless, and expedited experience for all stakeholders. The CRIB app aids property owners in efficiently managing tenants, rent collection, vacancy monitoring, tenant communication, and other essential functions. Notably, the cost of managing per bed is less than Rs 100 per month and can further reduce to around Rs 50 per bed for larger setups, making it an economically attractive solution for property owners.

Sunny Garg, Co-founder of CRIB Property Solutions, emphasized, “CRIB is revolutionizing the operational landscape of co-living and hostels in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Our objective is to provide a comprehensive solution that not only streamlines property management but also enhances the living experience for tenants. The overwhelming response from businesses and property owners underscores the significant impact CRIB is making in this industry."

Property owners and operators are reaping substantial benefits from the CRIB app, as it not only modernizes property management but also proves to be cost-efficient and user-friendly.

Shashank Reddy, founder of Sugathi Hometel, which operates multiple co-living spaces and hostels with approximately 500 beds under management, expressed gratitude to CRIB for simplifying their work processes.

Reddy stated, “After using CRIB, our work has become remarkably simple and convenient. Everything we need is available in one app, such as monthly rent reminders, collection records, reports, and much more. This enables me to manage my properties with ease, and the app is very intuitive, making it easy for anyone to adapt to it with just a few days of training."

As the demand for improved living facilities and co-living setups continues to surge, CRIB is playing a pivotal role in assisting service providers in upgrading and aligning with the evolving expectations of tenants

About Crib:

Crib is a cutting-edge SaaS-based property management solution provider founded in 2022. The platform connects landlords and tenants, offering a digital ecosystem that simplifies and enhances the rental housing experience. With a focus on technology, automation, and transparency, Crib has become a leading player in the real estate sector, managing over 1.5 lakh beds in multiple cities and facilitating yearly rents exceeding Rs 2,500 crores.

Website: https://crib.in/

How To Use MobiKwik Pocket UPI For Simplified UPI Payments

The fintech sector has rapidly evolved by leveraging technology to offer cutting-edge solutions that enable users to manage their finances more effectively and securely.

However, recent data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reveals that during the first half of FY24, over 14,000 banking-related scams took place. As these scams become more sophisticated, fintechs are proactively implementing solutions to strengthen the security and trust of their users.

MobiKwik, a fintech company is leveraging the power of UPI by enabling its users to make safe transactions with Pocket UPI - a powerful feature that enhances the functionality of its digital Wallet. Pocket UPI enables users to leverage their MobiKwik Wallet to make payments across all operators’ QRs and UPI IDs seamlessly, without directly linking the bank account.

Pocket UPI enhances security by reducing repetitive exposure to the bank account while making UPI payments. It is a convenient option to make UPI payments for minor and recurring expenses, as it consolidates minor and recurring expenses, decluttering bank statements for improved financial visibility. It works 24/7 even during bank downtimes.

How to get started with Pocket UPI? The process is easy:

First, scroll down on the MobiKwik app and select Pocket UPI. To create your Pocket UPI ID, you must first complete the KYC. 

Load your MobiKwik Wallet. You can add balance to your Wallet using UPI, debit cards and credit cards.

Once your balance is topped up, you can start making UPI payments through the Wallet to any QR code, contact, and UPI ID.

How to pay using Pocket UPI?

Tap on the scan icon.

Scan the recipient’s QR code or enter the name/phone number/UPI ID in the bottom bar.

Enter the desired amount.

Choose Pocket UPI from the drop-down menu.

Tap on confirm payment.

Once the payment is made, MobiKwik will send you an alert via text message to confirm the payment along with the remaining balance in your Wallet.

To learn more about how Pocket UPI works, please take a look at our blog. You can also check out this video to see Pocket UPI in action: Know how to use Pocket UPI.

About MobiKwik

MobiKwik is a fintech company that is a comprehensive provider of financial products and services. Our products range from payments to digital credit and investments, enabling our users to meet their financial needs.

Founded in 2008 by Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku, MobiKwik has grown to serve over 146.94 million registered users across India, with a merchant network of over 3.81 million as of September 30, 2023.

SBI Life & Lucknow Super Giants Unveil The Spectacular Larger-Than-Life ‘Helmet’ Installation At Ekana Cricket Stadium

* The enormously large helmet, prominently installed at the Ekana Cricket Stadium is symbolic of the importance of protection, both on and off-field

SBI Life Insurance, one of the most trusted private life insurers in the country, along with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), inaugurated the spectacular ‘larger-than-life’ helmet installation at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, the team's home ground in Lucknow. The helmet installation, measuring an impressive 27 feet in height and 34 feet in width is prominently placed right at the main entrance of the stadium serving as a visual treat for the visiting cricket fans and also the larger populace around the city.

The objective behind this grand scale of the imposing helmet structure is to raise awareness around the need & importance of life insurance by spurring progressive conversation around the significance of protection on-field & off-field. Capturing the attention of cricket enthusiasts, the unique structure aims to convey that ‘Life Protection Se Bada Kuch Nahi’ to the locals of Lucknow city, emphasizing on protecting one’s life with necessary safeguard against uncertainties. 

Unveiling of the ‘larger-than-life’ helmet was graced by Mr. Ravindra Sharma, Chief of Brand, Corporate Communication & CSR, SBI Life Insurance, along with Mr. Salmantaj Jafer Taj Patil, DCP Traffic, Lucknow; Mr. Kamlesh Kumar Dixit, DCP Women Crime Safety, Lucknow; Mr. Rahul Rahi, Regional Director- Lucknow, SBI Life Insurance and Keshav Maharaj, LSG player in presence of other respected dignitaries.

Being the Official Lead Helmet Partner of Lucknow Super Giants, SBI Life aims to underscore the poignant parallel between the protective function of a helmet on the cricket field and the vital role of insurance in protecting the financial future of individuals & their loved ones off-the field. Just like a helmet protects the player from any potential setbacks on the field so that they can play confidently and achieve their team’s target without worrying about the risks. Similarly, life insurance plays the role of an enabler which allows individuals to confidently pursue their dreams & aspirations while simultaneously safeguarding the needs of their loved ones, in case of uncertain events.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Ravindra Sharma, Chief of Brand, Corporate Communication & CSR, SBI Life Insurance said, "Introducing the concept of protection to cricket enthusiasts, the monumental ‘larger-than-life’ helmet installation at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow serves as a powerful conversation starter. It epitomizes the message that  'Life Ki Protection Se Bada Kuch Nahi’, which echoes our brand purpose of liberating individuals to fulfil their dreams while taking care of familial responsibilities. Cricket is beyond a sport, it is an interplay of historical, cultural, economic & emotional factors, thus it provides an opportunity to connect with the larger fanbase of this amazing sport and spur meaningful conversations on the importance of protection, both on and off field. With the current rate of insurance penetration in India, it is crucial to continue our efforts about raising awareness around the need & importance of insurance to build a secured financial future. Our collaboration with LSG is an effort to foster meaningful engagement with the cricket enthusiasts across the country and liberate them to pursue their passion. " He further added, "We believe this association seamlessly illustrates the synergies between the importance of insurance and helmet, highlighting the significance of protection both on and off the field. We are thrilled about our journey with Lucknow Super Giants and anticipate a season filled with exhilarating performances. As we continue to promote insurance awareness across the country, we will hope that our efforts translate in actions taken by the cricket enthusiasts towards protecting the future of their loved ones through life insurance”.

The helmet, one of the most visible assets in cricket, offers an extraordinary opportunity for SBI Life to symbolically emphasize the commitment to championing protection and igniting positive change, especially for the cricket fans nationwide. Just as a helmet shields the player from on-field risks, life insurance provides financial security, empowering individuals to pursue their dreams without holding back.

About SBI Life Insurance

SBI Life Insurance (‘SBI Life’ / ‘The Company’), one of the most trusted life insurance companies in India, was incorporated in October 2000 and is registered with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) in March 2001.

Serving millions of families across India, SBI Life’s diverse range of products caters to individuals as well as group customers through Protection, Pension, Savings and Health solutions.

Driven by ‘Customer-First’ approach, SBI Life places great emphasis on maintaining world class operating efficiency and providing hassle-free claim settlement experience to its customers by following high ethical standards of service. Additionally, SBI Life is committed to enhance digital experiences for its customers, distributors and employees alike.

SBI Life strives to make insurance accessible to all, with its extensive presence across the country through its 1,028 offices, 24,060 employees, a large and productive network of about 243,590 agents, 74 corporate agents and 14 bancassurance partners with more than 41,000 partner branches, 150 brokers and other insurance marketing firms.

In addition to doing what’s right for the customers, the company is also committed to provide a healthy and flexible work environment for its employees to excel personally and professionally.

SBI Life strongly encourages a culture of giving back to the society and has made substantial contribution in the areas of child education, healthcare, disaster relief and environmental upgrade. In 2022-23, the Company touched over 1.1 lakh direct beneficiaries through various CSR interventions.

Listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange ('BSE') and the National Stock Exchange ('NSE'), the company has an authorized capital of Rs. 20.0 billion and a paid-up capital of Rs. 10.0 billion. The AuM is Rs. 3,714.1 billion.

For more information, please visit our website-www.sbilife.co.in and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

(Numbers & data mentioned above are for the period ended December 31, 2023).

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Honoured With ‘Commendation For Significant Achievement’, Under Its CSR, AtTthe 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Awards

Recently, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) was recognised for its best CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) practices under the category ‘Commendation for Significant Achievement’ presented at the 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Awards. This is a testament to the company’s relentless social efforts and the robust framework for CSR governance and its successful implementation. 

For this award, the TKM CSR activities were evaluated by the CII-ITC assessors under the defined parameters that included Learning & Innovation adopted across all its CSR projects. The company’s social initiatives demonstrated strong alignment with these parameters. Furthermore, as a part of its CSR implementation process, TKM conducts periodic internal assessment overseen by a board-level CSR committee, to actively monitor and comprehensively measure the impacts, ensuring objectivity, credibility, and commitment to compliance. Over the years, the company has implemented diverse assessment tools and systems to evaluate its performance and bolster community enhancement and environmental stewardship through sustained initiatives.

Notably, TKM's CSR strategy embodies a dual focus on "Empowering Communities" and "Enriching Environment". Driven by innovation and guided by the principle of Kaizen (continuous improvement), TKM's CSR projects are organized into six key pillars: Skill Development, Road Safety, Education, Environment, Health & Hygiene, and Disaster Management. Additionally, its sustainable CSR model emphasizes community ownership, unified interventions, behaviour change, and stakeholder engagement.

Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Governance, TKM, said, “At TKM, we are honoured to receive the 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Award. We firmly believe in the strong connect and the inclusivity that lies between business growth and societal progress. With a keen eye on enduring interventions, we are focused on catalysing positive behavioural changes especially through our child to community approach.  Our continuous efforts are to actively engage with communities, understand their unique needs, aspirations, and challenges and tailor well thought programs to address the specific issues faced by them with sustainability at the core.

TKM has been successful in attaining sustainability in CSR by incorporating long-term strategic planning, engaging stakeholders to collaborate & support, timely project executions, implementing effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the project progressions, thereby aid the absolute community necessities.

This award reaffirms Toyota’s commitment to driving positive change and making a meaningful difference in the lives of people and the community. So far, we have achieved an outreach of over 2.3 million beneficiaries through our various social interventions. As we continue to evolve and adapt, we remain committed to optimal resource allocation and gauging effectiveness of all our CSR projects to enable stronger and meaningful interventions for the societal development.”

Rooted in Toyota's global vision, TKM's CSR programs are dedicated to fostering a resilient and sustainable society.