Department of Commerce, MAHE Hosts Insightful Talk With Suresh Prabhu On Sustainable Development And Economic Policies

The Department of Commerce at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) hosted an enlightening interactive session today featuring Hon. Shri Suresh Prabhu, a respected leader and thought influencer in sustainable development and economic policies. Shri Prabhu, who currently serves as the Founding Chancellor of Rishihood University and Guest Professor at the London School of Economics, has an impressive legacy as a former Union Minister with ten portfolios and six terms as a Member of Parliament.

The talk drew enthusiastic participation from students and faculty of the Department of Commerce, as well as attendees from TAPMI and other MAHE institutions. Shri Prabhu delivered a powerful address on key global issues, focusing on sustainable development, climate change mitigation, and transformative economic policies in emerging markets. His insights, shaped by years of experience in both national and international policy arenas, provided attendees with a deeper understanding of these critical topics.

The event was further distinguished by the presence of Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, who offered his support and encouragement for the academic discourse. Dr. Everil, who served as the Master of Ceremonies, skillfully guided the event, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for all attendees. The session concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Sandeep S. Shenoy, Head of the Department of Commerce, who expressed his sincere appreciation to Shri Suresh Prabhu for sharing his expertise and inspiring the audience.

This interactive talk offered a rare opportunity for students and faculty to engage with one of the most influential figures in sustainable development and economic policy, deepening their understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing emerging markets today.

PNB Launches “PNB ANTAH DRISHTI Braille Debit Card” For Visually Impaired Customers

~ Enhanced debit card design facilitates easier use for visually impaired customers~

Punjab National Bank (PNB), the nation’s leading public sector bank, has launched the “PNB ANTAH DRISHTI” () Braille Debit Card, a new debit card specifically designed for visually impaired customers. This contactless NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) Debit Card is available on RuPay network. The introduction of the PNB ANTAH DRISHTI Braille Debit Card reflects the bank’s commitment to inclusivity and financial accessibility. This initiative also aims to enhance financial independence and convenience for visually impaired individuals, empowering them to manage their finances with greater ease and confidence.

Innovatively designed, this new debit card features:

Raised Braille Dots (PNB in Braille) - The brand name “PNB” is prominently embossed on this debit card, making it easy for visually impaired customers to differentiate between PNB and other Banks’ Cards. Additionally, the welcome letter that accompanies the debit card will also be in Braille dots.

Rounded Notch – This debit card has a rounded notch on the opposite side of the chip. This facilitates the card holder to know about the direction of the card while dipping the same in ATM / POS.

Glossy Spot UV lamination effect – This debit card has a glossy spot UV lamination effect with raised texture on the Bank’s logo and silk screen rough spot UV on the contactless symbol. This helps visually impaired customers to locate the bank’s logo easily and read the card’s contactless symbol, making it easy for them to use the debit card.

Contrasting colours – This debit card is easily distinguishable due to its contrasting colours which makes it easier for the visually impaired customers to read the card details.

NueGo Celebrates 2 Years Of Sustainable Growth With Over 45 Million Emission Free Kms

NueGo, India's leading intercity electric bus brand by GreenCell Mobility promoted by EverSource Capital, is celebrating its second anniversary marking significant achievements and laying an ambitious roadmap for the years ahead. NueGo has accomplished close to 50 million emission free kilometers within two years of its launch and has revolutionized the mass mobility industry, offering reliable, safe and comfortable travel experience to all its guests. NueGo has become the first intercity electric bus brand to achieve this milestone within 2 years of launch.

Indians are not only travelling more often, they also want to travel better. Two years ago, NueGo embarked on a mission to transform intercity travel experience. With a steadfast commitment to customer experience and sustainability, NueGo started with 80 buses during inception and is now featured amongst India's leading intercity electric bus brand with a fleet size of over 250 electric ac buses and over 500 daily schedules.

NueGo has driven over 5 million guests in 110+ cities across the country since 2022. Saving more than 10 million litres of diesel and with zero tail pipe emissions, it has avoided over 30 million kgs of CO2 emissions.

Devndra Chawla, MD and CEO, GreenCell Mobility said, "Two years ago, we embarked on a mission to redefine intercity mass mobility in India. Indians want to travel better, and NueGo was born out of a vision to deliver reliability, safety and comfort to our guests and contribute to a healthier planet. The milestones achieved by NueGo not only underscore the brand’s rapid growth but also highlight its dedication in reducing environmental impact. As we celebrate the brand’s 2-year anniversary, I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to all our stakeholders, especially our incredible customers. Their loyalty and trust have been the cornerstone of brand’s success & its future, filled with endless possibilities.”

NueGo has been a frontrunner in championing Women’s Safety in India’s intercity electric bus service sector. It is the first brand to launch a dedicated 24x7 helpline number for women travelers, introduce Pink Seat feature while ticket booking, providing clean and hygienic mid-points and buses equipped with advanced cutting-edge security measures such as CCTV Surveillance, GPS Live Tracking, Driver’s Breath Analyzer Tests, Speed lock at 80 km/hr and more.

NueGo has strategically enhanced its operational efficiency with the establishment of over 50 mid-points nationwide, equipped with cutting-edge charging infrastructure to ensure a smooth travel experience for all passengers.

Going forward, NueGo is set to launch innovative offerings designed to further enhance passenger comfort and convenience. The introduction of hybrid buses combining sleeper and seater configurations, is already underway in all operational states. NueGo is also launching the 'Green Miles' loyalty program to increase customer engagement, reward frequent travelers, as well as providing ‘Snack on the Go’ on its select routes.

AGS Transact Technologies' Digital Payments Platform ‘Ongo’ To Empower Chennai Metro Commuters

AGS Transact Technologies Limited (BSE: 543451 & NSE: AGSTRA), one of the leading providers of integrated omni-channel payment solutions in India, today announced that its digital payment platform and a non-bank PPI ‘Ongo’ will commence issuance of instant National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC) to provide an enhanced commuting experience at Chennai Metro Rail Corporation (CMRL). These cards do not require full KYC, as per the updated RBI guidelines, for making transit payments, promising a more efficient commuting experience.

Ongo’s instant card issuance process is an industry-first, wherein unique card dispensers are installed across select Chennai metro stations to facilitate instant issuance of these ready-to-use NCMC cards. This streamlined process offers a quicker onboarding experience, encouraging the rapid adoption of NCMCs across India. The Company will earn revenue through issuance fee, interchange fee on each transaction, and float income. Furthermore, the company plans to extend the issuance of these ready-to-use NCMC cards to additional metro stations in Chennai and other cities in due course. This aligns with AGS Transact Technologies’ strategic business growth outlook, to expand its digital payments business and strengthen its card issuance business.

The daily ridership across metro systems in India is about 10 million and it is expected to reach about 12.5 million in near future. Chennai Metro, which is one of the 12 NCMC enabled metro systems in the country, achieved a peak monthly ridership of over 95 lakhs and more than 35 lakh closed-loop metro card users in July 2024. National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) provides commuter a unified payment solution that seamlessly integrates various transportation modes such as metros, buses & water ferries, as well as at parking and toll booths. With the instant issuance of NCMC cards, AGS Transact Technologies aims to bring millions of commuters under the NCMC ecosystem while expanding its growing user base.

Commuters can purchase the instant NCMC cards for Rs 100 from these card dispensers in three easy steps: Select Card - Pay via UPI – Collect ready-to-use Ongo NCMC card. Each card comes preloaded with a balance of Rs 50. Commuters can conveniently top up their instant NCMC cards with a maximum fund limit of Rs 3,000 at ticket counters across all Chennai metro stations. Additionally, commuters have the option to upgrade their cards by completing full KYC, enabling them to enjoy all the benefits of an NCMC, including in-store and online payments.

Ongo had previously launched open-loop cobranded RuPay prepaid cards enabled with NCMC for customers of a leading FMCG conglomerate. Additionally, AGS Transact Technologies, in partnership with RBL Bank, is issuing NCMCs for Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation.

About AGS Transact Technologies Limited (AGSTTL)

Established in 2002, AGS Transact Technologies Limited (BSE: 543451| NSE: AGSTRA) is one of the largest integrated omni-channel payment solutions providers in India in terms of providing digital and cash-based solutions to banks and corporate clients. AGS Transact provides customised products and services comprising ATM and CRM outsourcing, cash management and digital payment solutions including merchant solutions, transaction processing services and mobile wallets. The company operates in three broad business segments, namely, Payment Solutions; Banking Automation Solutions; and Other Automation Solutions.

Ongo is a fast-growing omnichannel digital payment platform by AGS Transact Technologies, which offers convenient payment solutions. Launched in 2015, Ongo offers merchant Acquiring and Prepaid Issuance services. Ongo is a non-bank prepaid payment instrument and offers dedicated open-loop prepaid solutions for consumers across segments.

AGS Transact Technologies serves diverse industries such as banking, retail, petroleum, toll and transit, cash management and fintech in India and other select countries in Asia. As of June 30, 2024, the company has deployed 2,48,834 payment terminals and was one of the largest deployers of PoS terminals at petroleum retail outlets in India, having rolled out 41,777 terminals at various petroleum retail outlets. For more information, please visit www.agsindia.com.

Scripbox Brings App-Based Advisory To Investors In Direct Mutual Funds

Scripbox, India's leading mutual fund app, today announced the launch of investment advisory services for direct mutual funds. Historically available only to high net worth individuals (HNIs), these advisory services are now accessible to all customers via the Scripbox App for a monthly fee.

"Investors in direct funds lack access to expert guidance, this is a significant gap in the market which we are addressing with our app," said Sanjiv Singhal, Founder of Scripbox. "Our digital app provides personalized financial planning, risk profiling, asset allocation, fund selection, portfolio review –  end to end high quality advisory services – for investors in direct funds. This is what we do best—helping our customers meet their long-term financial goals."

Scripbox App is the first to bring high-quality advisory services to investors in direct mutual funds. This launch is part of Scripbox's mission to help a million families achieve financial freedom. Investment advisory services are provided by a wholly owned Scripbox group company - Mitraz Financial Services Private Limited (SEBI Reg No. INA200001041).

Scripbox’s track record underscores the importance of high-quality financial advice. The company's recommendations have outperformed in 9 out of 13 periods, with initial wealth of customers growing 35 times since inception. Customers who started with an investment of ?3 crores in 2013 now see their wealth valued at ?106 crores.

Expert advice and financial planning are essential for improving outcomes and achieving financial goals for long term investors. Studies consistently show that clients who work with financial advisors achieve better outcomes compared to those who do not. However, high quality advice is available only to high net worth investors who can afford it. Scripbox App based advisory is affordable and targeted at individuals aspiring to meet their families' goals by investing in mutual funds. Scripbox leverages advanced technology to deliver high-quality, personalized advice at scale. By using sophisticated algorithms and data analytics, Scripbox can provide tailored recommendations that match each investor's unique financial goals.

Investors often face challenges without proper guidance, leading to premature exits and suboptimal returns. Data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) as of June 30 highlights this issue: 15.6% of equity assets do not stay invested for more than six months; 10.9% stay invested for 6-12 months, and 22.2% stay invested for 12-24 months.

Scripbox has always led with comprehensive advice to help customers achieve their long-term financial goals. With the introduction of investment advisory services for direct funds, customers now have the choice to invest in either regular funds, where Scripbox earns a commission, or direct funds for a monthly fee. This subscription-based advisory service for direct funds ensures that investors receive continuous, real-time financial planning tailored to their evolving goals, providing them with the expert guidance they need to make informed investment decisions.

Belagavi TO Get A New “Heartfulness Meditation Centre” With The Mission To Reach More Reditation Seekers

* Vishweshwarayya Technological University hosts Heartfulness Meditation for over 1400 students and academia

Heartfulness in Belagavi held a foundation stone laying ceremony and ‘Bhoomi poojan’ of the proposed new Heartfulness Meditation Centre across 4000 sq feet land in Sadashiv Nagar in Belagavi. The foundation stone was laid by Shri. Kamlesh Patel (Daaji) – Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission. The aim of the center is to offer free meditation and making meditation accessible to people of all religions, caste or creed.  In yet another event hosted by Vishweshwarayya Technological University (VTU) in Belagavi, over 1400 students and academia from various educational institutions gathered and participated in a group meditation led by Rev. Daaji. This was followed by Vice Chancellor of VTU Dr. Vidyashankar felicitating Daaji on the occasion. Acclaimed cinematographer of Kannada film Industry, Ms. Shwetpriya had an interactive session with Daaji wherein he shared his wisdom and the importance of meditation in our daily lives.

Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission spoke on the occasion of the upcoming new Heartfulness Meditation Centre in Belagavi, “The purpose of the new meditation centre is to be able to accommodate more practitioners and seekers. Meditation must be made accessible and an indispensable tool to manage our lives in the most balanced way, and also take care of the spiritual aspect of our lives.”

The new Heartfulness Meditation Centre will have a capacity of 300 practitioners to meditate at one time. The old Heartfulness Centre of Belagavi has trained thousands of seekers including Corporates, Educational Institutes, Police Department, CRPF Personnel, Air Force cadets, Commandos of Indian army and officers of Income Tax department. 

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Promotes Holistic Approach To Clean And Green Vehicle Mobility On The ‘World Biofuel Day 2024’

As champions of sustainability, globally, Toyota is committed to Carbon Neutrality by 2050 and aims to achieve Net Zero Carbon in Manufacturing Operations by 2035 guided by Toyota Environmental Challenges 2050 (TEC 2050). Today, marking the World Biofuel Day, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reiterates its commitment to sustainable mobility. The company has been advancing greener mobility solutions with greater agility by introducing and supporting multiple clean technologies considering various factors such as the current energy mix, unique consumer needs, infrastructure readiness, and the Government’s diversified efforts towards becoming ‘Atma Nirbhar’ in energy by 2047.

India is the fastest growing large economy. The country’s fossil fuel consumption along with imports is also rising rapidly, wherein the crude oil imports during April 2024 rose to its third highest level on record. India, world’s third largest energy consumer imported 21.4 million tonnes (mt) of crude oil in April ’24 & total 232.5 million tonnes of imported crude oil in 2023-24 fiscal (Source: April 2024 PPAC Data). Due to a large increase in mobility needs, the transport sector, which currently accounts for about 50% of oil demand (Source: IEA 2021), will be the most significant contributor to this. The higher fossil fuel consumption is also bound to result in larger carbon emissions. Therefore, it is imperative to rapidly shift away from fossil fuels with utmost urgency. 

Towards sustainable and greener future, transition to technologies that use cleaner energy such as electrification and alternate fuels (biofuel) is vital. Biofuels play a critical role in ensuring access to affordable and sustainable energy. This provides a big opportunity for India to tackle energy security concerns, boost economic growth and combat climate change by lowering carbon emissions.

India is well endowed with renewable energy, surplus sugar, food grains, and biomass which offers huge opportunities for a transition to a cleaner energy future, which is also indigenous. The abundantly available sugarcane, excess food grains, along with huge biomass waste can be used to produce ethanol that can substitute a significant amount of fossil fuel used by vehicles in the shortest possible time.

Additionally, India has big potential for ethanol production, making it an economically attractive alternative to fossil fuels and paving the way for a greener future, by using plant waste or residues like Parali through 2G technology which is otherwise burnt causing widespread pollution in northern parts of India. This has already started and can help derive economic value from waste & generate greater wealth for the agrarian economy by increasing farmer incomes and create new jobs. Further support such as research and development, favourable policy framework, etc., will enable uninterrupted supply of ethanol for the transportation sector.

Notably, in June 2024, ethanol blending with petrol reached 15.90% and cumulative ethanol blending during November 2023-June 2024 touched 13.0%. E20 is available at ‘14,611’ PSU (public sector undertaking) outlets as of June ’24 and is on track to achieve 20% blending by 2025. The implementation of 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025-26 is expected to substitute 86 million barrels of gasoline, thereby leading to forex savings of over Rs. 30,000 crores for India, as well as likely reduction of more than 20 million metric tonnes of carbon emissions. E20 fuel will also reduce PM2.5 emissions by up to 14% as compared to petrol (Source: MoPNG). Given the huge potential of ethanol production that exists up to and beyond E20, these benefits can increase multi-fold with the introduction of Flexi Fuel Vehicle (FFV) technology, that can flexibly use higher ethanol blends from 20% and above, going up to 100%.

However, the challenge with Flex Fuel Vehicles is lower fuel efficiency of Ethanol due to its lower energy density. Globally to counter this challenge, Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFV-SHEVs) are being introduced, as an advanced green technology that has both the flex fuel engine as well as an electric powertrain. Therefore, as in the case of a Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle (SHEV), the use of the electric powertrain in combination with the flex fuel engine overcomes this challenge with enhanced fuel efficiency. Towards this, last year, TKM unveiled the prototype of World’s first BS6 Stage II Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicle. This green vehicle technology has the lowest well-to-wheel carbon emissions, and a favourable policy support can establish strong traction with consumers, thereby make the mobility sustainable.

Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, "Biofuel can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and yield environmental and economic benefits. In this context, Ethanol, as an indigenous and clean energy source, holds immense potential for India's energy security and environmental goals. By significantly reducing fossil fuel consumption and cutting down on carbon emissions, ethanol not only supports our national agenda of carbon neutrality but also bolsters the agrarian economy by creating jobs and increasing farmer incomes. At TKM, we are making relentless efforts towards the future of sustainable mobility by adopting a multiple technology pathway approach which includes biofuel energy driven vehicle powertrains i.e., Flex Fuel Vehicle (FFV) and Flex Fuel Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle (FFV-SHEV) technology.

As a frontrunner in electrified vehicle technology and a socially responsible corporate entity, TKM will persistently drive its endeavours and contribute to progressive innovations by disseminating sustainable technological advancements, thereby providing ‘Mobility for All’ and “Leaving No One Behind.”

Further, emphasising the significance of multiple energy pathway approach towards achieving carbon neutrality, today, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) took part in the SIAM International Conference, themed “The Biofuel Revolution in India: Fuelling Tomorrow” that covered a series of sessions on biofuel demand and supply management, preparing the auto industry for a biofuel future, and developing a robust ecosystem for biofuel adoption. The event witnessed eminent speakers from the government and the industry, as well as participation by global experts.