Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL) Onboards Ace Cricketer, “Rishabh Pant As Its Brand Ambassador”

Pant’s partnership with AESL is a notable benchmark, strengthening the company's commitment to inspiring students to achieve their best and pursue their academic goals with the same vigor and passion that the cricketer exhibits on the cricket field.

Rishabh Pant’s association with Aakash will inspire countless students to strive for excellence and never give up on their dreams.

Bengaluru, 7th August, 2024: Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly announces the appointment of star Indian wicketkeeper-batter, Rishabh Pant, as its brand ambassador. Known for his resilience and determination, Pant's journey reflects AESL's ethos of perseverance and excellence. Pant has been appointed the Brand Ambassador for a period of one year.

Rishabh Pant, celebrated for his street-smart cricketing skills and outstanding scoring abilities, embodies the spirit of perseverance. His resilience and determination brought him back to the sport after a close shave with a near-fatal road accident, creating an inspiring turnaround story.

His partnership with AESL is a notable benchmark, strengthening the company's commitment to inspiring students to achieve their best and pursue their academic goals with the same vigor and passion that Pant exhibits on the cricket field. Pant's dynamic and inspiring persona resonates with the values of AESL, motivating students to push their limits and strive for academic excellence.

Commenting on this partnership, Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, Managing Director and CEO of Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL) said, "We are thrilled to welcome Rishabh Pant to the Aakash family. His journey of hard work, dedication, and continuous learning aligns perfectly with our values at AESL. We believe that his association with us will inspire countless students to strive for excellence and never give up on their dreams. Just as Rishabh Pant has shown that determination and perseverance leads to success in cricket, we at AESL are committed to instilling these values in our students to help them achieve their academic aspirations."

Rishabh Pant, Indian International Cricketer, remarked, "I am honored to be associated with Aakash Educational Services Limited, a name synonymous with academic excellence. Just as in cricket, where preparation and perseverance are key to success, AESL empowers students with the right tools and guidance to achieve their goals. I look forward to this exciting partnership and I am sure the young minds of our country will taste great success. Education is the foundation of a successful future, and I am proud to be a part of this journey with AESL.”

With this partnership, AESL continues its commitment to empowering students and shaping the future of education in India.

Mr Ritesh Nath, Head of Sports Division at Collective Artists Network on the partnership said, “This collaboration is set to inspire countless students, reinforcing the values of perseverance, hard work, and dedication. We believe Rishabh’s remarkable journey and his association with AESL will motivate young minds to strive for excellence and achieve their academic dreams with the same passion and vigor he demonstrates on the cricket field. This partnership is a testament to the power of commitment and resilience, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on students across the nation.”

Added SportCell COO, Mr Jitendra Singh on the partnership, “Rishabh Pant's inspiring journey reflects the sprit of absolute resilience and grit that Aakash Educational Services Limited fosters in its students. SportCell strategically orchestrated this partnership to motivate students, showcasing the transformative power of perseverance and unwavering commitment and hard work to achieving one's dreams.”

Dvara KGFS Awarded "Gold Level Certification" For Client Protection By MFR

Dvara Kshetriya Gramin Financial Services Private Limited (Dvara KGFS) is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious GOLD Level Certification in Client Protection by MFR, a global rating agency renowned for its assessments, data, and technical expertise in the sustainable finance industry. This certification is aligned with the Client Protection Standards of CERISE+SPTF, underscoring Dvara KGFS's commitment to upholding the highest client protection and financial integrity standards.

The GOLD Level Certification signifies that Dvara KGFS meets and exceeds the rigorous criteria established by CERISE+SPTF, ensuring that the organization adheres to best practices in transparency, fair treatment, responsible pricing, and safeguarding of client data.

Mr. LVLN Murty, Managing Director & CEO of Dvara KGFS, commented, "We are immensely proud to receive the GOLD Level Certification for Client Protection from MFR. This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our client’s well-being and our dedication to upholding the highest ethical standards in our operations. At Dvara KGFS, client protection is at the core of our mission, and this recognition validates our efforts to provide transparent, fair, and responsible financial services to underserved communities."

"Securing this GOLD Level Certification from MFR is a significant milestone for Dvara KGFS. It reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence in client protection and our dedication to fostering trust and confidence among our clients. This recognition is not just an accolade but a motivation to continue our efforts in ensuring that our financial services are not only accessible but also responsibly managed to protect the interests of our clients.", added Ms. Shilpa Bhatter, CFO of Dvara KGFS.

This GOLD Level Certification is an essential milestone for Dvara KGFS, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to ethical practices and client-centric service delivery. It highlights the importance of maintaining high standards in client protection, which is fundamental to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with clients.

Gaurav Dalmia Joins Fashion Entrepreneur Fund As investor And Promoter

The Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), India’s first venture studio dedicated to the fashion sector, welcomes Mr. Gaurav Dalmia, Chairman of Dalmia Group Holding, as an investor and promoter. As a new investor and promoter, Mr. Dalmia brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will significantly enhance FEF’s mission to nurture and support emerging fashion entrepreneurs.

Mr. Dalmia’s alliance with the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) highlights his visionary approach and keen eye for lucrative opportunities. As a key figure in FEF, Mr Gaurav Dalmia leverages his expertise to support and nurture emerging fashion enterprises, demonstrating his commitment to transforming the fashion industry by addressing the challenges faced by millions of professionals in the sector. Recognizing a critical gap in the support system for fashion entrepreneurs, he views FEF as the ideal solution. FEF is designed to offer comprehensive support, from focused mentorship to financial resources, addressing the industry's lack of infrastructure and opportunities for growth. Utilizing Mr. Dalmia's industrial acumen, FEF aims to create a dynamic network where fashion businesses can flourish, innovate, and compete on a larger scale.

Mr. Vagish Pathak, Chairman, and Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “Having Mr. Gaurav Dalmia join FEF is a tremendous boost for us. Our mission is to create a vibrant ecosystem where fashion dreams can flourish into successful enterprises. With the stalwart joining us, we are poised to accelerate this mission and reach new heights. Mr. Dalmia’s extensive experience in fostering entrepreneurship and passion for innovation aligns perfectly with our goals. His experience and extensive networks will be invaluable in reaching out to fashion brands and entrepreneurs. With his support, we are confident that FEF will become the go-to platform for fashion entrepreneurs in India, providing them with the investment, resources, and mentorship they need to succeed.”

An initiative by the India Fashion Awards, FEF is committed to fostering a collaborative ecosystem within the fashion industry. With Mr. Dalmia’s extensive background in private equity, real estate, public markets, structured debt, and fixed income, his strategic insights and leadership in industrial growth will drive FEF’s initiatives towards sustainable development and provide a new vision and unparalleled support to upcoming fashion entrepreneurs.

Mr. Dalmia shared his thoughts on the engagement, “Joining FEF aligns with my vision of encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship in India. The rising number of homegrown brands with national and international potential is impressive, and the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund presents a unique opportunity to nurture and elevate this talent, especially those in supporting roles like photographers, makeup artists, show directors, models, stylists, etc. By providing the necessary resources and guidance, we aim to enable these professionals to scale and succeed, nurturing a thriving community of creative minds and building a sustainable and inclusive industry that can compete globally.”

This initiative is dedicated to bringing in leaders from diverse backgrounds to strengthen the foundation and enhance the quality of work of local entrepreneurs in the fashion segment. FEF recently announced substantial investments by Mr. Ravi Jaipuria, chairman of RJ Corp widely recognized for his impactful contributions to the food and beverage industry and Bollywood Icon Mr. Akshay Kumar, who is a versatile actor known for high-octane action films and rib-tickling comedic roles. Looking ahead, FEF plans to collaborate with more leaders, operating in sync for the betterment of the industry.

About the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF):

Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), a groundbreaking initiative, fosters a collaborative ecosystem within the fashion industry. FEF is investing an initial amount of ?20 crore to empower individuals in the fashion sector, helping turn their aspirations into thriving enterprises. This pioneering venture aims to cultivate innovation and entrepreneurship, providing essential resources and mentorship to budding talents. By bridging gaps and offering support, FEF propels the growth and success of emerging businesses, enriching the fabric of the fashion landscape. With its robust foundation and visionary approach, FEF sets the stage for transformative change and sustainable growth in the industry.

Website Link - https://www.thefef.net/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fashion_entrepreneur_fund?igsh=MXByNzR3Zmxzenl1Mw== 

Tata Motors Disrupts The Mid – SUV Segment With India’s First SUV Coupe

Key Highlights:

* Launches Curvv.ev at an attractive starting price of Rs 17.49 lakh

* Redefines the segment with the largest battery pack and long driving range of 585 km

* Showcases Tata Curvv in multiple powertrain options

* Introduces a premium differentiated design combined with cutting-edge technology

* Curvv.ev launched at Rs 17.49 lakh for the 45kWh battery and at Rs 19.25 lakh for the 55kWh battery

* 2nd product based on the advanced Pure EV architecture - acti.ev

* Bookings for Curvv.ev open from 12th August; Deliveries begin 23rd August

* Certified long driving range of 585 km on a single charge for 55kWh and 502 km for 45kWh

* Debut of Tata.ev originals -  a new line of EV accessories

* Showcases its multiple powertrain might with the Tata Curvv in 2 petrol engines and 1 diesel engine option

* Launches ATLAS – An Adaptive Tech forward Lifestyle Architecture made for its ICE vehicles

* Debuts an all new petrol engine - Hyperion Gasoline Direct Injection engine - indigenously developed first GDi engine offering

* Boasts of best in class Boot space of 500 L (in ICE and EV)

* The Curvv.ev makes a strong statement on bringing price parity between EVs and ICE vehicles

Defining a new era of SUV design, Tata Motors, India’s leading automotive manufacturer, today, officially launched the Curvv.ev and showcased the Tata Curvv. Built on 5 key pillars of ‘Shaped to Stun’, ‘Shaped for Grandeur’, ‘Shaped for Performance’, ‘Shaped for Innovative Technology’ and ‘Shaped for Absolute Safety’, the Curvv marks the Company’s entry in to the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment. This new addition to the Tata Motors’ SUV range is a unique product blend of SUV robustness and Coupe elegance. Breaking the clutter in a space dominated by boxy-SUV body styles, Tata Motors is proud to be the first OEM to bring this innovative body style to India, with the Curvv – India’ first SUV Coupe.

As promised in 2022, today, the Company is launching the Curvv.ev first, which will soon be followed by the launch of its ICE avatar. Being the second product on Tata Passenger Electric Mobility’s (TPEM) advanced Pure EV architecture – acti.ev, the Curvv.ev represents the next leap in India’s electric vehicle journey. Available in three distinct personas – Creative, Accomplished and Empowered+, the Curvv.ev embodies the perfect fusion of Comfort, Spacious interior features, Safety and advanced technology - All of this coupled with its long range, fast charging capability and an accessible price parity with its Mid SUV ICE counterparts in the industry. With a long driving range of 585 km on a single charge for the 55kWh battery pack and 502 km for the 45kWh (ARAI certified, MIDC Part 1), the Curvv.ev will be available at a starting price of Rs 17.49 lakh for the Curvv.ev 45 and at Rs 19.25 for the Curvv.ev 55.

Furthermore, with the launch of this premium SUV, the Company also announced the debut of Tata.ev originals - a new line of EV accessories that offers personalized customization. TPEM also introduced the Tata.ev Charge Point Aggregator – a consolidation of India's Widest network of 9000+ charging points with live status availability integrated into the iRA.ev connected car app.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicle and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “Today, marks an important milestone in our SUV journey with our foray into the fast-growing mid SUV segment. We are very proud to launch our most innovative SUV yet with a new typology – India’s very first SUV Coupe. With the Curvv, we are pushing further the boundaries of design, safety and technology. The Curvv also takes forward our established strategy of offering choice to discerning customers with its multiple powertrain offerings in EV, Petrol and Diesel. 

The Curvv.ev being launched today, offers an impressive estimated real-world range of 400-425km with its largest battery pack of 55kWh. Further, its specially designed fast charging capability ensures a top-up of 150km range in just 15-minutes. With a starting price of Rs 17.49 lakh for the Curvv.ev 45, we are boldly bringing price parity between EVs and equivalent ICE vehicles. The extended range and attractive pricing of this product extraordinaire makes EVs an even more compelling proposition by breaking several perception barriers. Its tech-rich features, advanced safety and exhilarating infotainment will delight every EV buyer and enthusiast.”

About Curvv.ev

Shaped to Stun:

The Curvv.ev is a non-traditional typology. Merging the toughness and durability of an SUV with an elegant and sporty silhouette of a Coupe; the Curvv.ev has found and retained the perfect balance between elegance, performance and practicality. It combines great design with a superior product, making it the best offering yet for the Mid SUV segment.

Its exterior boasts of a differentiated coupe design made to look more premium with flush door handles. The R18 alloy wheels with Aero Inserts along with the squared wheel arches lend their sportiness to the premium design. Highlighting the design meets tech approach, the Curvv.ev comes with Smart Digital Lighting such as Smart Digital Connected DRLs with Welcome & Goodbye Animation, Smart Charging Animation, Sequential turn Indicators, LED Projector Head Lamp, LED Front fog lamps with Cornering function, Smart Digital Connected LED Tail lamps with animation, Smart digital steering wheel, Electric Front Charging Lid with Auto open/closing, Digital Dashboard, Phygital Control Panel, Voice assisted Panoramic Sunroof with Mood lighting and a Smart Digital Shifter.

The Panoramic Sunroof provides the cockpit with a sense of freedom and lots of natural light in the day while the Multi Mood Ambient Lighting provides its passengers with a sense of comfort and belonging. In terms of utility, the Curvv.ev comes with the best in segment boot space of 500 litres which is further accentuated by the extra space of 11.6 litres provided in the Frunk upfront, a fundamental requirement for customers of this category.

The Curvv.ev will be available in an exciting colour palette - Virtual Sunrise, Pure Grey, Pristine White, Flame Red and Empowered Oxide, depending on the persona one chooses.

Shaped for Grandeur:

The Curvv.ev incorporates top-of-the-line features typically found in premium segments, enhancing its value proposition. It is meticulously designed inside out with immense focus on comfort and convenience, making its inmates experience the true meaning of effortless luxury. With Advanced Comfort Seats, Front Seat Ventilation, 6 Way Power adjustable driver seat, 6 Way adjustable co-driver seat, Grand Centre Console, Cooled Glove Box and Front & Rear Fast Charge C Type 45W, this SUV Coupe has a front row like no other. On the rear, the car comes with 60:40 Rear Split Seats with a Centre Armrest, 2 stage rear seat reclining and Rear AC Vents.

Equipped with Automatic Headlamps, Rain sensing Wipers, Fully Automatic Temperature Control with Express Cooling, coupled with Cruise Control, Keyless Entry and Push-Button Start, the Curvv.ev also scores high on convenience as well.

Shaped for Performance:

Built on the advanced acti.ev architecture, the Curvv.ev offers exhilarating performance of 123 kW / 167 PS power propelling it from 0-100km/h in 8.6 seconds. With the largest battery pack options of 45 kWh (502 ARAI certified range) and 55 kWh (585 ARAI certified range), the Curvv.ev is not only your ride for your daily needs but is also your best companion for long drives with your loved ones. The 55kWh battery pack incorporates prismatic cells (1.2C rated) for significantly faster charging speeds, enabling charging from 10 – 80% in just 40 minutes or for quick top-ups of upto 150 km of range in just 15 minutes.

With 3 drive mode combinations as standard (Eco, City and Sport), Multi-Mode Regen with Paddle Shifters, High Ground Clearance of 190 mm for Curvv.ev 45 and 186 mm for Curvv.ev 55, Smart power electronics and multiple charging options, the Curvv.ev is engineered for best in class performance.

Shaped for Innovative Technology:

Powered by the Snapdragon Digital Chassis Platform by Qualcomm, the Curvv.ev sets a new benchmark for innovation in this segment. It further comes loaded with features such as 31.24 cm Cinematic Touchscreen by HARMAN™, 26.03 cm Digital Cockpit, Cinematic Experience with Arcade.ev and its host of 20+ apps, JBL cinematic sound system, Advanced OTA capabilities, V2L and V2V as standard across all personas, Smart Watch Connectivity and Powered Tailgate with Gesture Activation.

The introduction of the game changing iRA.ev provides customers with enhanced new features. The addition of industry-first charging aggregator integrated into the iRA.ev connected car app shows real-time availability of chargers (Unified Charging Locator with live availability of 9000+ Chargers), and enables seamless navigation to the charger, ensuring one can travel seamlessly to the length and breadth of India, without any anxiety or charge concern.

Shaped for Absolute Safety:

Engineered with advanced safety features to provide absolute protection for you and your loved ones on every journey, the Curvv.ev comes enhanced with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems - Level II which boasts of 20 features. In addition to the same, this SUV Coupe provides its customers with 6 Airbags as standard across all personas, All Wheel Disc Brakes with brake disc wiping, Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS), SOS Call Function, ESP with i-VBAC as standard, Front Parking Sensor, Electronic Parking brake with Auto Hold Function as standard, Hill Hold Assist, Hill Descent Control and a well-rounded warranty cover on the High Voltage (HV) Battery pack and motor: 1.6 lakh km or  8 years  and vehicle (1.25 lakh km or 3 years) , ensuring peace of mind.

About Tata Curvv

Tata Curvv is designed to cater to a distinct segment of the market which is looking for a more advanced and stylish option with premium features. Offering features from segments above, the Curvv will be introduced on the new advanced ICE architecture – ATLAS. The ATLAS architecture supports multiple powertrains, and offers superior comfort and performance.

Making the Curvv indispensable in today’s competitive market, Tata Motors will be introducing this product in 2 petrol (The new Hyperion Gasoline Direct injection engine and the 1.2 L Revotron Petrol Turbocharged engine) and 1 diesel option (1.5 L Kryojet diesel engine) – all paired with both, a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Today also marks the debut of the indigenously developed first GDi engine offering –The Hyperion Gasoline Direct Injection engine. The Curvv will be offered in 4 personas – Smart, Pure, Creative and Accomplished and an enticing colour palette featuring Gold essence, Daytona Grey, Pristine White, Flame Red, Pure Grey and Opera Blue

The Curvv will come enhanced with multiple segment defining attributes, making it one of the best options available in this segment. With best in class boot space of 500 L, first in segment offerings like Powered tailgate with gesture control, largest screen size in segment with 31.24 cm infotainment by HARMAN™, 26.03 cm instrumental cluster with JBL Branded Audio System (9 Speakers including Subwoofer), Slim End to end LED DRLs with Welcome and Goodbye animation, End to End LED Tail lamp with Welcome & Goodbye animation, Illuminated 4 spoke Digital steering wheel and best in segment Level 2 ADAS, the Tata Curvv is definitely a powerhouse of a product.

Furthermore, the Curvv is enabled with the convenience of Connected Vehicle technology through the integration of iRA 2.0, which features remote engine start/stop and a range of innovations designed to enhance every journey.

All New ATLAS Architecture:

The Tata Curvv is built on the new ATLAS architecture - An Adaptive Tech forward Lifestyle Architecture made for the Company’s ICE vehicles. A revolutionary foundation that redefines SUV performance and versatility - this advanced architecture is designed to enhance every aspect of the Curvv, from its rugged SUV capabilities to its dynamic drive and handling, while also offering a range of powertrain options, ample space, and comprehensive safety features. Additionally, its modular nature also supports scalability, allowing for a variety of body styles, top hats, and powertrain configurations.

About Hyperion Gasoline Direct Injection engine:

The Hyperion gasoline direct injection engine is an all new engine introduced by Tata Motors that offers sporty and peppy drives making it an exciting choice for car enthusiasts. The Hyperion engine is built with three key attributes:

Hyperformance:  Achieved through gasoline direct injection and turbocharging delivering more power across a wider operating band with a best in class torque density. Hyperion engine delivers power of 91.9 kW @ 5000 rpm and torque of  225 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm

Hypertech: Advanced Technology used in the Hyperion engine includes a 350 bar fuel injection system, variable geometry turbocharger, sodium cooled exhaust valves, miller cycle combustion chamber, hydraulic cam phasing with central oil control valve, exhaust after treatment with gasoline particulate filter, which elevates the performance and responsiveness of the engine.

Hyperquiet: The overall NVH of the engine has been meticulously reduced resulting in smoother and quieter drives.

*All India Ex-Showroom Price | T&C Apply.

Tikau Fashion Launch: H&M And Bal Raksha Bharat’s Circular Economy Initiative To Revolutionize Waste Management In Bengaluru

In response to Bengaluru’s mounting waste management challenges, H&M Hennes & Mauritz Retail Pvt. Ltd., H&M Services and Bal Raksha Bharat (also known as Save the Children India) proudly announce the launch of Tikau Fashion, a pioneering circular economy project designed to revolutionize waste management and promote sustainable practices in the city.

The project will harness the creative potential of Bengaluru’s youth to tackle both waste management and unemployment through practical, circular economy solutions. Central to this initiative is the recycling and upcycling of old clothes into new, trendy fashion items and other products such as bags, rugs, and quilts.

This project will build on the successes of the Youth Innovation and Action Lab (YIAL), which has already demonstrated its effectiveness in fostering youth-led innovation across multiple states. By integrating technology and providing ongoing mentorship, Tikau Fashion will not only create job opportunities but also drive significant environmental benefits.

This effort not only addresses the waste generated by the textile industry but also promotes awareness about sustainable fashion practices.

Key Features of the Tikau Fashion Initiative

Waste Reduction: Turning textile waste into high-quality, new products, thereby minimizing the environmental footprint of the fashion industry.

Youth Empowerment: Engaging young people in the creation of eco-friendly products while providing them with valuable skills in design, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.

Community Education: Raising awareness about the importance of responsible waste management and sustainable fashion choices.

Ms Yanira Ramirez, Country Sales Manager for H&M Hennes & Mauritz Retail Private Limited shared “At H&M, we firmly believe in the transformative power of collaboration to drive positive change.This initiative by Bal Raksha Bharat, exemplifies our shared dedication to sustainability and community empowerment. By transforming textile waste into eco-friendly products, this initiative addresses Bengaluru's waste management challenges while creating valuable opportunities for local youth. This project aligns seamlessly with our global sustainability goals, showcasing how innovative circular economy solutions can make a lasting environmental and social impact. We are thrilled to see Tikau Fashion inspire a new generation of conscious consumers while fostering a more resilient and inclusive future for all.”

Speaking on the occasion, Sudarshan Suchi, CEO, Bal Raksha Bharat said, “We are thrilled to launch Tikau Fashion in partnership with H&M, marking a significant step towards transforming waste management practices in Bengaluru. This initiative embodies our commitment to sustainability and youth empowerment. By integrating circular economy principles, we are not only addressing the pressing issue of textile waste but also providing valuable skills and opportunities to the next generation. Through Tikau Fashion, we aim to create a positive environmental impact while fostering economic growth and innovation among marginalized youth. Together, we can build a greener and more inclusive future."

As Bengaluru grapples with escalating solid waste issues exacerbated by rapid urbanization and insufficient infrastructure, the need for innovative solutions has never been more critical. Current waste management strategies, including those under programs like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, have made strides. To accentuate the government’s efforts and accelerate waste segregation, proper disposal, and an advanced technology integration, Bal Raksha Bharat and H&M have stepped up to address the pressing need for community education.

Tikau Fashion aims to address these challenges by embracing the principles of a circular economy—a sustainable model that focuses on minimizing waste and maximizing resource use. Unlike traditional linear models, the circular economy promotes recycling, reuse, and remanufacturing, ensuring that products are designed to be easily repaired, upgraded, or disassembled. This innovative approach not only reduces environmental impact but also fosters economic growth and sustainability.

About Bal Raksha Bharat

Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children India) is a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth across India. Since 2008, BRB has been working tirelessly to address issues of education, health, and empowerment, particularly for marginalized communities.

About H&M

H&M is a global leader in fashion and sustainability, committed to innovative practices that promote a circular economy and reduce environmental impact.

New Balance Opens Its First Store At Brigade Road In Bengaluru

New Balance, one of the fastest growing sports brands in the world, opens its newest retail concept at Brigade Road, Bengaluru. Highlighting its strategic expansion plans under the newly launched Indian subsidiary, New Balance has advanced its presence in several cities since the start of 2024 with Bengaluru being the latest addition to the list.

This unique retail concept embodies New Balance at the intersection of sports and culture, catering to professional athletes and lifestyle enthusiasts alike. Spanning over two storeys, the store provides an intuitive and engaging experience, ensuring consumers feel welcomed and inspired. The new store on Brigade Road features a thoughtfully curated selection of performance and lifestyle products including their iconic 1080, 550, 327 & 9060. Customers can immerse themselves in New Balance's innovative Fresh Foam X and FuelCell technologies, complemented by a dynamic retail environment.

Radeshwer Davar, Country Manager, New Balance India expressed his excitement for this significant milestone, stating: “We are delighted to announce the opening of our first-ever store in Bengaluru, in the heart of the city, on Brigade Road. The Indian Silicon Valley boasts a youthful dynamism with some of the country’s most passionate sports fans, making it a great fit to our expansion journey in India. We would love for the people of Bengaluru to try out the New Balance experience at our newest store.”  

About New Balance:

New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA, has the following purpose: Independent since 1906, we empower people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world.  New Balance employs 9,000 associates around the globe, and in 2023 reported worldwide sales of $6.5 billion. New Balance owns five athletic footwear factories in New England and one in Flimby, U.K.  New Balance MADE U.S. footwear contains a domestic value of 70% or more and makes up a limited portion of New Balance’s U.S. sales.  To learn more about New Balance, please visit www.newbalance.com; for the latest press information visit http://newbalance.newsmarket.com.

Canon India Strengthens Commitment To Skill India: Launches Skill Development Centres To Enhance Youth Employment

Marking a significant step in its CSR outreach to empower communities, Canon India today announced the opening of two new Skill Centres in Kapashera, Delhi, and Andheri East, Mumbai. Aligned with the Skill India mission, this project demonstrates Canon India’s commitment to contributing to Indian society by creating value-led impact in the community through skill development. The Skill Development & Livelihood Program aims to uplift youth aged 18-25 years, living in urban slums by providing them with essential life and employability skills, preparing them for seamless placement in customer-centric, grey-collar jobs, ensuring a pathway to stable and meaningful employment.

Aiming to reach over 2500 individuals in a period of five years, the program targets youth from Below Poverty Line (BPL) who are currently not in education, employment, or training (NEET). Participants will gain crucial skills in high-demand sectors such as BFSI, Retail, IT/ITeS, E-commerce, and Quick Service Restaurants, positioning them for better employment opportunities with an average minimum salary of INR 12,500.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Toshiaki Nomura, President & CEO, Canon India, said, “India’s young population can contribute immensely to nation building and we at Canon India are committed to nurturing this potential through necessary support and resources. ‘Empowerment’ is a critical pillar in our CSR policy, through which we have already impacted thousands of lives in our Adopted Villages. The establishment of new skill centres is a step towards providing market relevant skills and meaningful opportunities that benefit the youth in building successful careers and contributing to the country’s economy. This initiative is more than just training; it’s about instilling hope, confidence, and the ability to dream bigger. This program represents Canon India’s broader mission to drive sustainable development and empower individuals to achieve their fullest potential.”

Through a comprehensive 2.5-month training period, participants will engage in a blend of hands-on group and individual activities covering key areas such as English language proficiency, IT proficiency, and essential life skills. This training model promotes peer-to-peer learning, encourages collaboration, enhances communication, and boosts confidence, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to handle job interviews and navigate the job market with ease.

Further elaborating on the details of the new initiative, Mr. C Sukumaran, Senior Director, Product & Communication, Canon India, add, “At Canon India, we are deeply committed to the holistic and sustainable development of the community. Building on our impactful initiatives in Education, Empowerment, Environment and Eye Care, we are proud to introduce a new pillar in our CSR journey through skill centres that are aimed at empowering the burgeoning youth of India. Through the Skill Development & Livelihood Program, we aim to not only equip individuals with the skills needed for today’s job market but also support their path to employment, financial independence, and higher family income. Canon India aims for 70% of the trained individuals to secure job placements post-training, enhancing their employability in multiple sectors.”

The initiative not only aims to provide steady income to boost family earnings by double but also strives to make a real difference in the communities by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. More importantly, the youth will further become ambassadors of change and inspire others in their community.

About Canon Inc.

Canon Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leader in the fields of professional and consumer imaging equipment, industrial equipment, and information systems. Canon’s extensive range of products includes production printers, multifunction office systems, inkjet and laser printers, cameras, video and cinematography equipment, network cameras, medical systems and semiconductor-manufacturing equipment. Originally established in 1937 as Precision Optical Industry, Co., Ltd., a camera manufacturer, Canon has successfully diversified and globalized to become a worldwide industry leader in professional and consumer imaging systems and solutions. With about 169,000 employees worldwide, the Canon Group includes manufacturing and marketing subsidiaries in Japan, the Americas, Europe, Asia and Oceania; and a global R&D network with companies based in the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia. Canon’s consolidated net sales for fiscal 2023 (ended December 31, 2023) totaled $29.44 billion (at an exchange rate of ¥142=U.S. $1). Visit the Canon Inc. website at: global.canon

About Canon India  

Canon India Pvt. Ltd. is the sales and marketing subsidiary of Canon Inc., a world leader in imaging technologies. Having started its operations in 1997, Canon India markets a comprehensive range of sophisticated contemporary digital imaging products and solutions in India. The company today has offices in 10 cities across India with merchandise warehousing facilities at 4 location and employs 1000 staff and over 850 channel partners. Canon India enjoys a vast retail presence across the country through Canon Image Square (CIS) stores, PIXMA Zones, and BIS Lounges. Canon India’s service reach extends to over 632 towns covering 19,118 PIN codes across India – which comprises of 349+ Camera collection points, 15 Camera repair centers, 320+ Printer repair centers, 183 Copier, Scanner and 120 Large Format Printer Sales & Service dealers. (Updated as of April 2024)

In sync with its corporate tagline- ‘Delighting You Always’, reinforced by World-class technology, Canon offers an extended product portfolio, including Digital Production Printers, Large Format Printers, Commercial Printers, Multi-Functional Devices, Managed Document Services, Inkjet & Laser Printers, Document and Cheque Scanners, Digital Cameras, DSLRs, Mirrorless cameras, Cinematic Imaging Products, and Surveillance cameras catering to the multiple market segments of consumer, SME, B2B, Commercial, Government & PSUs.