Coca-Cola India Southwest Asia Announces New Leader For Marketing

Coca-Cola India Southwest Asia (INSWA) Operating Unit (OU) today announced Greishma Singh as Vice President of Marketing effective Sept 1, 2024. She was most recently Vice President of Customer and Commercial Leadership (C&CL) for the INSWA OU.

Greishma will succeed Arnab Roy, who was recently named Global Category President, Coca-Cola Trademark.

“Across her roles Greishma has been a high impact leader with a reputation for collaboration and inspirational people leadership,” stated Sanket Ray, President, Coca-Cola India Southwest Asia. “She has had significant wins most recently as the leader of C&CL driving key commercial initiatives and partnerships with customers and we are excited to see her move in to lead marketing.”  

Greishma has been with The Coca-Cola Company for a little over 15 years. During this time, she has held roles of increasing responsibility across Marketing, Strategy and C&CL in Australia and India. In her most recent role in India, she enabled Coca-Cola India to deliver revenue leverage while holding affordable price points, ramping up distribution to an all-time high and shaping the business to build a competitive advantage in critical emerging channels offline and online.

Prior to rejoining INSWA, as part of the South Pacific Business Unit, Greishma held a variety of roles in marketing – delivering strong outcomes across various brands like Glaceau, Vitaminwater, and Powerade. She then moved into the strategy function, holding roles across business intelligence and planning.  She completed her tenure in South Pacific heading the Strategy & Insights team for the Business Unit and leading the definition and implementation of the long-term growth strategy for the system in Australia.

Greishma joined the company in 2008. Over the years she has displayed a strong grounding in entrepreneurial accountability and has fostered a sense of passion for high performing teams.

Greishma received her MBA from the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad and has a bachelor’s degree from Colorado College.

In her new role, she will continue to be based in India along with her family.

PGIM India Mutual Fund Launches PGIM India Multi Cap Fund

PGIM India Mutual Fund today announced the launch of PGIM India Multi Cap Fund, an open-ended equity scheme investing across large cap, mid cap and small cap stocks. The fund is benchmarked against Nifty 500 Multicap 50:25:25 TRI.

The New Fund Offer (NFO) opens for subscription on August 22, 2024, and closes on September 05, 2024.

“Given near term volatility in the equity markets, a typical question we face is “What do you think about the markets?” That’s a difficult one to answer and anybody’s guess. However, the second follow up question one gets is “Where do you think we should invest for the current market conditions?” While this is best answered for each individuals’ specific situation and goals by a trusted advisor, a simple step could be to take exposure to all market capitalizations in a disciplined format. A multi cap strategy provides investors with a disciplined approach to diversify their exposure towards all market caps,” said Ajit Menon, CEO, PGIM India Asset Management.

"We believe it’s a good time to invest in a diversified portfolio of good quality and high growth companies, as these have significantly underperformed in the last few years despite strong growth in their intrinsic values. We have seen early signs of outperformance of this strategy post the election results and the change in Bank of Japan's monetary policy, in the last couple of months," said Vinay Paharia, CIO, PGIM India Asset Management.

The scheme will invest a minimum of 25% each in large, mid and small cap stocks, respectively. While typically the balance 0 - 25% will be invested in ground up opportunities across any or all of the three market cap buckets, the scheme also has a provision to take exposure in debt (up to 25%), up to 10% in REITs and InvITs, and up to 20% in foreign securities, including overseas ETFs. 

The equity portion of the scheme will be managed by Vivek Sharma, Anandha Padmanabhan Anjeneyan and Utsav Mehta while the debt portion will be managed by Puneet Pal.

“There are good long term opportunities available across market capitalizations which will benefit from India's growth juggernaut. What we need is careful stock picking and a balanced portfolio to take advantage of this. It is imperative to have exposure to all market capitalizations at all times which also changes appropriately according to the opportunities available. PGIM India Multi Cap Fund aims to do just that,” said Vivek Sharma, Senior Fund Manager - Equity, PGIM India Asset Management.

Multi Cap strategy entails a balanced approach towards investment, in both established and emerging fast-growing sectors across the mid and small-cap space. As winners keep rotating across different market capitalizations, A Multi Cap Fund provides disciplined exposure across different market caps capturing ideas regardless of the size. *Our research shows that Nifty 500 Multicap 50:25:25 TRI has outperformed Nifty 500 TRI in 11 out of last 19 years from 31-Dec-05 to 31-Jul-24.

The portfolio construction approach is bottom-up and well-diversified. The fund adopts Growth at a Reasonable Price (GARP) focused strategy with flexibility to adjust between short, medium and long-term growth opportunities based on market conditions. It may allocate to turnaround ideas, event-driven opportunities, and stocks showing momentum, driven by earnings growth in the medium to long term. The fund aims to capitalise on themes such as healthcare, financialization, mobility, consumption, new energy, among others, which are emerging on account of the structural changes undergoing in the Indian economy.  

Key Features

Minimum Application Amount

·         Initial Purchase/Switch-in: Minimum of Rs. 5,000 and in multiples of Re. 1 thereafter.

·         Additional Purchase:  Minimum of Rs. 1,000 and in multiples of Re. 1 thereafter.

·         SIPs: Minimum no. of 5 instalments and minimum amount per instalment - Rs. 1,000/- each and in multiples of Rs.1 thereafter.

Exit Load

For each purchase of units through Lumpsum/switch?in/Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) and Systematic Transfer Plan (STP):

·         Within 90 days from date of allotment of units: 0.50%.

·         Beyond 90 days from date of allotment of units: NIL

The entire exit load (net of Goods and Services tax), charged, if any, shall be credited to the scheme.

*Source: MFI Explorer; Performance is Absolute; YTD Data as from 31-Dec-05 to 31-Jul-24. Past performance may or may not be sustained in the future.

PNB Enhances Its “WhatsApp Banking Services” With New Features

Punjab National Bank (PNB), nation’s leading public sector bank, has further enhanced its WhatsApp Banking Services by introducing two new features that allow customers to download their account statements and interest certificates directly through WhatsApp. These new features complement PNB’s growing suite of non-financial services available through PNB’s WhatsApp Banking, which also includes balance inquiries, mini statements, cheque book requests, emergency services and more. This initiative also reflects PNB’s ongoing commitment to providing secure, accessible, and convenient digital banking solutions to its customers.

The two additional features include:

Account Statement Download: Customers can choose to download their account statement for last week, last month, or a custom date range (up to 90 days). The account statement will be delivered as a password-protected PDF on WhatsApp.

Interest Certificate Download: Customers can choose to download their interest certificate for housing loan, education loan, or deposit accounts for required financial years. The interest certificate will be delivered as a password-protected PDF on WhatsApp.

To access these new services or any other PNB’s WhatsApp Banking services, customers can initiate a conversation by simply sending “Hi” or “Hello” to +91-9264092640 and select "Account Related Services".

For more information on PNB’s WhatsApp Banking Services, visit https://www.pnbindia.in.

Raminfo Limited Announces Kisan Drones Pvt Ltd: Launching 100+ Stores Across India In Two Years

Raminfo Limited, a BSE-listed company and a leading innovation-led technology solutions-providing company is marking a significant step toward the agricultural sector with the launch of Kisan Drones Private Limited. This initiative is set to revolutionize the agricultural landscape by offering cutting-edge drone services that promise to enhance farming practices and productivity.

Kisan Drones Private Limited is designed as a "Drone-as-a-Service" platform, poised to deliver a wide range of benefits to farmers across India. These technologically modern drones will be deployed across agricultural fields, enabling precise field mapping and efficient fertilizer spraying. This technological advancement is expected to significantly boost agricultural output and refine the art of farming, providing farmers with a powerful tool for modern agriculture.

The focus of the initiative will be at the grassroots level of the drone ecosystem within the farming fraternity, where farmers will have access to the best drones, servicing of the same, and training of new drone pilots. The drone entrepreneurs will also receive the required financing and guidance to bring them to speed with the demand and business development associated with their new enterprise, making Kisan Drones a one-stop shop not only for new entrepreneurs but also for drone pilots.

L. Srinath Reddy, Managing Director, Raminfo, expressed his enthusiasm, stating - "We are proud to announce the launch of our new initiative Kisan Drones Private Limited to the farming fraternity. Kisan Drones Pvt. Ltd. is the one key stepping stone toward our long journey to empower the agricultural sector with advanced technology. From providing access to top-notch drones and excellent support services for farmers, we not only enhance productivity but also unleash a new wave of entrepreneurship in rural India. It is our commitment that each farmer, irrespective of location, is empowered with the best practices and knowledge to succeed in today's dynamic agricultural industry.”

The initiative plans to launch 100 centers in the next two years: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha. There will be two different types of stores ‘mini and major’ stores to meet the farmers' needs. The Mini stores will provide only the basic drone store facilities while the Major stores will be larger compared to the mini stores and will provide the farming community with extensive service options with qualified drone pilots to guide the farmers on how to access the different types of drones according to the farmer's need.

This program also aims to create over 1000+ entrepreneurs in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the next 12-18 months, by connecting drone service centers with drone operators. Also, in its role as a medium between the market and the producer, Kisan Drones Private Limited will have the most critical and definitive say in creating synergy between the demand for drone services and producers who cater to that service.

Kisan Drones Private Limited is a step towards revolutionizing the agricultural landscape and aims to bring a range of benefits to farmers. This innovation promises a breakthrough in agricultural yields and refinements in the farming fraternity. To synchronize with the vision of Raminfo on using the latest technology in converting agriculture, the launch of Kisan Drones takes it forward. As Kisan Drones Private Limited is launched, it will collaborate with OEM players in the industry to bridges the gap between technology and tradition.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Honoured With CSR Times Award For Swachh Bharat Initiatives In Raichur

Demonstrating its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced that it has been honoured with the prestigious CSR Times Award 2024 under the ‘Swachh Bharat’ category. This recognition was awarded for TKM’s significant contributions to improving sanitation, health, and hygiene through its ABCD (A Behavioural Change Demonstration) activity in Raichur, an aspirational district in Karnataka identified by NITI Aayog.

The award ceremony took place at the Darbar Hall, Raj Bhawan, Goa. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Pramod Sawant, who served as the Chief Guest, along with Guests of Honour such as Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Hon’ble Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy, and Shri Puneet Kumar Goel (IAS), Chief Secretary, Government of Goa.

The CSR Times Award is a highly regarded recognition that honours organizations for their outstanding contributions to corporate social responsibility. Since its inception in 2013, the award has celebrated initiatives that demonstrate exceptional dedication to societal well-being. The 11th edition of the National CSR Summit and CSR Times Awards in 2024 continued this tradition by highlighting projects that have made a meaningful impact on communities across India.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor was recognized for its extensive efforts in Raichur, where the company implemented the ABCD program in 100 Government schools that included Sanitation behavioural change programs for school children, teachers and community. The program involves practical & theoretic trainings, consumables supply, strengthening school cabinet & School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC), awareness videos in school and community. TKM’s efforts also includes training to local communities on maintaining sanitation infrastructure and fostering a culture of good health, hygiene & cleanliness. These measures were instrumental in significantly improving the health and hygiene standards in the district.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At TKM, we are honoured to receive the CSR Times Award 2024, under the ‘Swachh Bharat’ category. This award is a testament to Toyota’s unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable future through impactful corporate social responsibility initiatives. We believe that true growth is deeply connected to societal progress. Our focus has always been on driving positive behavioural changes, particularly through our child-to-community approach, ensuring long-lasting impact. By engaging closely with communities, we tailor our programs to meet their unique needs and challenges, with sustainability at the core. Our efforts in Raichur, aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene, reflect our dedication to enhancing the quality of life in communities. We are thankful to be recognized for our contributions to the Swachh Bharat mission and remain dedicated to driving positive change.”

Launched in 2015 aligned to the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan', the ABCD Program has been instrumental in empowering students and fostering positive behavioral changes related to hygiene and sanitation. The program focuses on improving sanitation practices through a child-to-community approach, prioritizing awareness among students, their families, and the broader community. After its notable success in the Ramanagara District where the program significantly contributed to making the district open defecation-free by benefitting over 58,000 students of 1,004 government schools and more than 430,000 community members. Owing to its unique approach and positive impact, the ABCD Program was featured as a case study in the Harvard Business Review. Building on this achievement, the program was extended to Raichur District, Karnataka, with a primary focus on reaching marginalized communities where it is was most needed. Additionally, a one-year ABCD refresher program has been introduced in Ramanagara district, covering schools in three phases to further sustain the program's impact.

Notably, TKM was also recently honoured with Commendation for Significant Achievement’, under its Corporate Social Responsibility, at the 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Awards and the CII GreenCo Gold Rating Award by its dealership, Rajesh Toyota, for their Best Sustainable Eco Practices. Moreover, last year, TKM earned a certificate of commendation for its significant contribution to the local community's advancement at the 'CSR Conclave– Education to Make a Social Impact' event, organized by the Government of Karnataka. 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. Since 2001, CSR has remained an integral part of TKM's philosophy. TKM's CSR initiatives are carefully aligned with the needs of the communities and national priorities, ensuring a meaningful and impactful contribution to society.

Siyaram's Announces Superstar Ranbir Kapoor As Its New Brand Ambassador

Siyaram's, one of India’s leading manufacturers of premium suiting and shirting fabrics and fashion apparels, has signed Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor as their esteemed brand ambassador. This strategic partnership is set to elevate the brand's popularity amongst the youth, resonating with a new generation of discerning consumers who seek style, sophistication, and an unparalleled sartorial experience.

With an iconic heritage spanning about five decades, Siyaram's has become synonymous with high quality products, continuous innovation, and international futuristic designs that are local at heart yet international in appeal. Recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to excellence, Siyaram's has consistently pushed boundaries, making global fashion accessible to Indian consumers. Their fabrics, garments, and textile products embody a culture of legacy and values, offering a perfect blend of tradition and modernity that resonates with millions of Siyaram's customers.

"We are very excited to welcome Ranbir Kapoor to Siyaram's family," says Mr. Ramesh Poddar, Siyaram's Chairman and Managing Director. "Signing Ranbir goes beyond a mere celebrity endorsement. While his star power is undeniable, what truly drew us to Ranbir was his genuine persona and the effortless style he embodies. Ranbir's personality impressively reflects the values of timeless elegance, unwavering confidence, and a commitment to staying ahead of the times. This collaboration will create a powerful connection with our target audience and propel the brand towards new horizons. Together, we look forward to crafting a powerful narrative that will inspire today’s youth and propel Siyaram's to even greater heights."

Expressing his delight, Ranbir Kapoor shared, "I am extremely happy to be a part of the Siyaram’s family, and in a way, it feels like coming home. Siyaram's commitment to innovation, reliability, and superior quality are values I truly admire as well, and it is an iconic brand and a family favorite, like most Indian households. Their collection resonates with my style, offering designs that exude sophistication. Growing up, I vividly remember watching their larger-than-life advertisements on TV, which left a lasting impression. To be a part of this legendary legacy feels like a childhood dream coming true. It's truly a nostalgic homecoming and an honor for me to be the new face of Siyaram’s, a brand renowned over decades for its unwavering dedication to values of excellence, trust, and Indianness, and that has earned the respect and admiration across generations."

As Siyaram’s embarks on this exciting next chapter, it plans to blend its storied heritage with one of the most celebrated actors of our time—Ranbir Kapoor, whose contemporary appeal is setting new benchmarks in men's fashion and aims to further build Siyaram's position as one of India's most loved fashion brands across generations.

About Siyaram’s:

With a diverse range of fabric offerings, from natural fibers to blended fibers Siyaram’s has garnered expertise in every facet of the production process, harnessing top-notch technology to produce prodigious fabrics with impeccable efficiency. Carried by an enduring spirit of freedom and creativity, they are highly sensitive and attentive to the changing nature and needs of modern man. The ISO 9001:2008-certified company is committed to creating world-class fabrics and apparel for fashion-forward trendsetters.

Website: https://www.siyaram.com/ 

A New Era Of Commuting Excellence: The All New TVS Jupiter 110 - Unparalleled Design, Performance, Comfort And Convenience

·         A reimagined design exemplified by the infinity light bar, premium piano black contrast panels and a modern chiselled profile

·         Next-gen light weight, compact, futuristic engine - equipped with iGO Assist - offering torque on-demand and improved fuel-efficiency

·         First and/or best-in-segment features that elevate the experience:

o    Dual Helmet under-seat storage, front fuel filling and spacious floorboard space

o    Superior braking with rotopetal disc brakes, turn signal lamp rest, emergency brake warning, Hazard lamps and MetalMaxx body for enhanced safety

o    Body Balance 2.0 with the longest seat for enhanced ride handling and comfort

o    “Find me” feature, “Follow me Headlamps”, intuitive auto cancellation TSL for added convenience 

o    TVS SMARTXONNECTÔ Bluetooth enabled cluster with call, SMS, Navigation and Voice Assist

o    Distance to Empty, Real Time Fuel efficiency and Average Fuel Efficiency and a host of features to offer peace of mind and practicality

Top Features TVS Jupiter 110:

All new Next Generation 113.3 cc Engine

• Nextgen lightweight Compact futuristic High-performance Engine 

• iGO Assist 

o Integrated Starter Generator

o ISG Controller

o High performance battery

Features

• Body Balance Tech 2.0

• Double Helmet Space

• Front Fuel Fill

• Infinity Light bar

• LED Headlamp

• Follow Me Lamp

• Fully Digital Colour LCD

• TVS SmartXonnect with add on features

o Find me feature 

o Distance to Empty

o Average & Real time Fuel Economy

• Turn Signal Lamp Reset

• Emergency Brake Warning

• Rotopetal Disc brakes

• Piano Black Finish

• Hazard Lamps

TVS Motor Company (TVSM), a leading global automaker that operates in the two and three wheeler segment, today launched the all new TVS Jupiter 110. The scooter comes equipped with a next-gen engine and futuristic, first-in-segment features.  The All New TVS Jupiter 110 exemplifies the very essence of "Zyada" – more style, mileage, performance, comfort, convenience, safety, and technology.

TVS Jupiter has been an unwavering companion and has continuously fulfilled the diverse needs of its 6.5 million customers.

At the launch, Mr. Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President — Head Commuter Business and Head Corporate Brand & Media, TVS Motor Company, said, “TVS Jupiter 110 has been the anchor of the TVS Motor scooter portfolio for the last decade. Over time, 6.5 million households have reposed their faith in this product, making it one of the biggest automotive brands out of India. The core DNA of Zyada Ka Fayda is further reinforced by the reimagined ALL NEW TVS JUPITER. The ability to deliver torque on demand, enhanced fuel-efficiency with loads of usable space, in contemporary design, sets the scooter in a league of its own. This superior proposition will continue to delight customers and build brand love for TVS Jupiter.”

Performance

The TVS Jupiter 110 is powered by a 113.3 cc, single cylinder, 4 stroke engine which generates a power of 5.9 kW@6500 rpm and a torque of 9.8 Nm@ 5,000 rpm (with iGO Assist) and 9.2 Nm @ 5,000 rpm (without Assist). The scooter encompasses pioneering technology that achieves a 10% increase in mileage compared to its predecessor. This is attributed to the innovative iGO Assist technology. It has an intelligent ignition system with auto Start-Stop functionality and ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) aimed at enhancing performance by harnessing power from the battery during overtaking and climbing. This facilitates additional acceleration precisely when required.

Exemplifying Excellence

·         Style meets excitement :with Infinity Lamps

·         Performance meets mileage: with All New Jupiter 110 engine and iGO Assist which gives 10% more mileage and better pick-up. 

·         Practicality meets comfort: with Front Fuel Fill, Long Seat, More Leg Space  and Body Balance Technology

·         Safety Meets innovation: Double Helmet Storage, Metal Maxx Body, Follow Me Headlamps, Turn signal lamp rest, Emergency brake warning

·         Technology meets Convenience: Fully Digital Bluetooth Enabled Cluster with Call and SMS, Navigation with Voice Assist, Find My Vehicle and more features. 

·         Choice Meets intuition: with a range of six elegant colours. 

The TVS Jupiter  is meticulously designed for ultimate comfort and convenience. It boasts a range of segment-first features, including a spacious glove box, front fuel fill, a long seat, an all-in-one lock, a USB mobile charger, and the patented E-Z center stand. The scooter's LED headlamp ensures superior illumination for safe night rides, while the motorcycle-like front telescopic suspension and large 90/90-12 inch tyres guarantee a smooth and comfortable journey. The vehicle comes with Body balance Technology 2.0 - engineered to a forward, lower and more central mass position. The fuel tank is moved by over 1,000 mm bringing the centre of gravity – (CoG) forward and lower, giving the vehicle superior stability. Combined with the large 12” wheels and optimal wheelbase, the all new TVS Jupiter 110 is a breeze to balance in tight traffic even at very low speeds. 

Design Philosophy

The TVS Jupiter 110 is designed with ergonomics at its core, featuring a well-positioned handlebar, spacious floorboard, and an accessible seat height, ensuring maximum comfort for riders of all sizes and genders. The stylish Piano Black finish and Signature Infinity lights add a touch of sophistication that reflects modern India’s evolving taste. It also comes equipped with a fully digital colour LCD speedometer with smart alerts, average and real-time mileage indicators.

Safety benchmarks

The all new TVS Jupiter 110 comes equipped some of the best safety and convenience features on a scooter including:

Assurance of MetalMaxx - metal fuel tank, front fender and side panels

Dual Helmet Space

·         Emergency Brake Warning

·         Turn Signal lamp Reset

·         Follow Me Headlamp

It is thoughtfully curated with a palette of exciting colours - Dawn Blue Matte, Galactic Copper Matte, Titanium Grey Matte, Starlight blue Gloss, Lunar White Gloss, and Meteor Red Gloss. Starting at a price of Rs. 77,400/- (ex-showroom, Karnataka), the scooter will be available in 4 variants – Drum, Drum Alloy, Drum SXC and Disc SXC at all TVSM dealerships.