JICA Supports Chiba Shoyu Co., Ltd. Collaboration With Kampai To Locally Produce Authentic Japanese Soy Sauce In India

* Partnership and culinary milestone celebrated at an exclusive event

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has supported Chiba Shoyu Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese soy sauce manufacturer with over 170 years of history, and Kampai (Japanese restaurant), a well-established Japanese restaurant and prominent player in the Indian restaurant industry, to introduce the first-ever locally produced authentic Japanese soy sauce to India. This initiative, titled “the Development of the Soybeans Industry through Japanese Traditional Koji in India” is part of JICA’s SDGs Business Validation Survey, which aims to promote sustainable development and support local enterprises by sharing Japanese expertise in food processing and manufacturing.

The success of this collaboration was celebrated at Kampai, New Delhi, on October 16, 2024 with the official unveiling of Chiba Shoyu’s first batch of authentic soy sauce. Attendees included Avantika Sinha Bahl, Founder & Managing Director of Kampai, and Ankur Chawla Kampai, Kyosuke Iida, President of Chiba Shoyu, Mr. Tomohiro Arima, Senior Representative of JICA India, and representatives from the Japanese Embassy. Guests had the opportunity to taste the locally produced soy sauce paired with a curated menu that showcases its potential to enhance the Indian culinary landscape.

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Tomohiro Arima, Senior Representative of JICA India, stated, “It is an immense pleasure to be part of this collaboration, which is not just about introducing a Japanese product to the Indian market but also represents a deeper cultural exchange between Japan and India. The partnership between Chiba Shoyu, known for its expertise in authentic soy sauce production, and Kampai, recognized for its commitment to bringing true Japanese flavors to the Indian culinary scene,  sets a new benchmark for quality and taste. Through this initiative, we aim to empower local industries by sharing Japanese expertise and contribute to ‘Make In India’ initiative in line with the Indian government's goals.”

The partnership began with a pilot (experiment) project in November 2023 at Kampai’s facility in Gurgaon, to produce soy sauce in India. The project utilized locally sourced raw materials and an Indian workforce, guided by Chiba Shoyu’s technical experts. After a rigorous 10-month fermentation process, the first batch of authentic Japanese soy sauce was successfully produced in September 2024. During the pilot phase, Chiba Shoyu’s technical team conducted quality control visits to ensure that the traditional koji fermentation methods were meticulously followed to maintain the quality and authenticity of the product.

As the next step, Chiba Shoyu and Kampai will focus on establishing a full-scale manufacturing facility in Gurgaon or Haryana to expand production for both domestic consumption and export to markets in the Middle East and Europe. This development will not only create local employment opportunities but also introduce sustainable processing practices to the region. Commercial production is expected to commence within a year, significantly contributing to local job creation and providing a platform for future exports.

JICA remains committed to supporting initiatives that foster sustainable development, promote local industry growth, and strengthen cultural ties between India and Japan. The success of this project sets a strong precedent for future collaborations in food processing and beyond, as JICA continues to work towards creating long-lasting value for communities in both nations.

Aakash Educational Services Unveils “Aakash Breakroom” Podcast, Your Essential Guide To NEET & JEE Success And Personal Growth

* Empowering Students: Proven Strategies for NEET & JEE Success

* Navigating Exam Pressure: Strategies for Academic Excellence and Personal Well-Being

'* Aakash Breakroom' podcast (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elPDa6WRo5Q) will provide an enhanced learning experience for NEET and JEE aspirants

Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services for NEET and JEE, is proud to announce the launch of its podcast series, “Aakash Breakroom” to motivate and educate students, offering actionable strategies to enhance their NEET and JEE exam preparation. This podcast is designed to support and meet the needs of students preparing for competitive exams, offering academic insights and guidance on personal growth and well-being.

The Aakash Breakroom podcast will feature a wide range of topics, focusing on helping students excel academically and navigating exam preparation pressure. It will cover effective strategies for success in competitive exams, providing proven academic tips and tricks to aid students in their study process. In addition to academic advice, the podcast will address the critical issue of stress management, sharing techniques to help students manage pressure and maintain their focus during high-stress periods.

Recognizing the importance of a balanced lifestyle, the podcast will also offer insights on how students can maintain their well-being while pursuing their academic goals. Beyond academics, the podcast will provide a platform for sharing personal stories and insights from experienced individuals, helping students feel supported in both their academic and personal journeys.

Speaking about the launch, Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, MD & CEO of Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), said, "At AESL, we believe that success in competitive exams goes beyond academic knowledge—it requires resilience, balance, and emotional strength. With the launch of the Aakash Breakroom podcast, we're providing students with not just the tools to excel in exams, but also the mental and emotional support they need to thrive in this demanding journey. Our aim is to inspire, motivate, and equip students with strategies that prepare them for both the rigors of the exam and the challenges of life beyond it."

AESL is recognized for offering thorough and effective preparation programs for students aiming to excel in high-stakes medical (NEET) and engineering entrance exams (JEE), as well as competitive exams like NTSE and Olympiads. The institute is dedicated to delivering top-quality test preparation services that empower students to realize their full potential and succeed in their academic pursuits.

Rentokil PCI Introduces “Termite Baiting Service And Innovative GoldSeal Service” - 4D, Leading The Way In Sustainable Innovation

Rentokil PCI, India’s leading pest control service provider, acclaimed for its expertise, is excited to announce the launch of its two pioneering services that set new standards in the pest control industry: Anti-Termite Fortress (Termite Baiting Service) and GSS 4D (Cockroach Service). These innovative offerings highlight Rentokil PCI’s focus on cutting-edge technology and sustainability, establishing new benchmarks in the industry.

The Anti-Termite Fortress is a termite baiting service approved by the Central Insecticide Board (CIB). This service offers a hassle-free, cost-effective, and non-invasive solution for homeowners, architects, builders, and construction companies. Unlike traditional methods that require drilling and chemical injections, the termite baiting service employs strategically placed bait stations, both in-ground and above-ground, to target termite colonies directly at their source. These bait stations use cellulose-based materials that termites naturally feed on, ensuring the complete eradication of termite colonies while safeguarding the surrounding ecosystem. This eco-friendly approach ensures the safety of families, pets, and the environment and provides long-term protection.

Simultaneously, Rentokil PCI has also introduced the GoldSeal Service - 4D (GSS - 4D), India’s only comprehensive 4D cockroach treatment. This service offers unparalleled protection for both households and businesses through its four-dimensional approach to pest control: Denying entry, shelter, and food thereby effectively Destroying cockroach populations. The GSS - 4D treatment includes rigorous checks to seal cracks and crevices, using silicone gel and natural dust to deny entry and shelter. Using drain cleaner the common sheltering spots of cockroaches are eliminated. The service also provides biodegradable garbage bags with an insect repellent effect thus denying cockroaches access to food. It also features powerful gel baiting, spray treatments, and eco-friendly insect monitoring traps. In this manner, GSS - 4D ensures complete protection against cockroaches and promotes a healthier, cleaner environment through sustainable practices.

David Lewis, Managing Director of Rentokil PCI, expressed his enthusiasm for these new services, stating, “The introduction of Termite Baiting Service and GSS—4D our comprehensive cockroach service marks a new era in pest control. The two services specifically target the most rampant species of pests thus exemplifying our drive to create innovations of scale, rooted in sustainability which provide effective solutions that protect our customers' properties and promote a healthier, greener environment. We proudly lead sustainable pest management and set new industry standards.”

With these launches, Rentokil PCI reinforces its approach to delivering globally acclaimed, technologically advanced, eco-friendly pest control solutions that align with the growing demand for sustainable practices. By integrating sustainability and innovation into its core offerings, Rentokil PCI continues to revolutionise pest control in India, ensuring long-term protection and peace of mind for its customers.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Celebrates The Festive Season With Exclusive Limited Edition Of Urban Cruiser Taisor

* Exclusive Festival Limited Edition to offer enhanced premium-ness and styling

* Complimentary Accessories Packages worth over ?20,160 available until 31st October 2024 across all Toyota dealerships

Adding to the festive fervour, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the Limited Edition of its highly popular model - Urban Cruiser Taisor. This special edition, designed with a focus on enhancing style, and premium-ness, comes with a well curated Toyota Genuine Accessories (TGA) package to elevate delight and excitement to customers.

Available across all Turbo variants, the Limited Edition comes with a comprehensive TGA package of ?20,160 enhancing both the exterior and interior of the versatile UC Taisor. List of key features:

Front and rear under spoilers in granite grey and red colors

Premium door sill guards

Chrome garnishes for the headlamps and front grille

Body side molding

Door visor premium

All-weather 3D mats and a welcome door lamp

All TGA will be fitted by certified Toyota technicians at dealerships, ensuring the highest quality and customer satisfaction.

Commenting on the introduction of the festive edition, Mr. Sabari Manohar – Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At Toyota, our efforts have always been centered on being a part of our customers' special occasions and celebrations which reflect our dedication to crafting delightful, customer-centric experiences. Following the recent introduction of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder Festive Edition, we are excited to offer the Urban Cruiser Taisor Festive Edition, designed to bring something fresh and exciting to this festive season. We are confident that our customers will find great value in this new addition.”

Since its launch in April 2024, the Urban Cruiser Taisor has quickly become a favorite among customers, especially those seeking a blend of style, performance, and versatility. Inspired by Toyota's SUV heritage, the Taisor features striking exteriors that exude a sense of prestige, complemented by its sleek, aerodynamic design and bold front grille. With a reputation for reliability and comfort, the Taisor has captured the hearts of SUV enthusiasts across India.

The 1.0L Turbo is available in 5 Speed Manual Transmission and 6 Speed Automatic Transmission delivering maximum power of 100.06 PS @ 5500 rpm. In addition to a power packed driving experience, the 1.0L Turbo also offer segment best fuel efficiency of 21.5* km/l for Manual and 20.0* km/l for Automatic.

Customers can either book the car online https://www.toyotabharat.com/online-booking/ or visit their nearest Toyota dealership.

RampMyCity Launches Accessibility Initiative In Mumbai, Making Public Spaces Wheelchair-Friendly

RampMyCity, an innovative accessibility startup, is pleased to announce its launch in Mumbai, marking a significant step toward inclusivity.  Founded in 2020, the startup has already transformed over 500 public spaces across five cities, making significant strides in creating wheelchair-friendly environments for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and the elderly. A significant step toward building an accessible city, this most recent initiative in Mumbai involves the installation of ramps at 15 police stations and 25 of the city's finest restaurants.

The initiative in Mumbai is not just about infrastructure; it’s about community connection and empowerment. People with disabilities can now enjoy the same experiences as everyone else, such as going to their favorite restaurant, seeing friends, or just feeling comfortable in their community, due to the installation of ramps. 

While commenting on the initiative Prateek Khandelwal, Founder and Managing Director of accessibility start-up RampMyCity Said, “Our goal is to erase barriers and allow everyone to have access to every area of Mumbai. We are pleased to be taking the lead in building a city where everyone can move freely and with confidence because to our latest installations. More than 300,000 lives have already been favorably influenced by RampMyCity's activities. We also with Mumbai Police to gain authorization to expand its accessibility initiatives to all police stations inside the city, hence augmenting public safety and inclusion. The partnership highlights how important accessibility is to making the community a safer and happier place for every resident.” 

Further he added, “Our aim is to expand its activities in Mumbai and reach 1,000 public and private establishments. Along with corporate offices and residential societies, this expansive concept includes parks, schools, hospitals, and tourist attractions. We invite everyone to join us in this mission. Together, we can create a more accessible Mumbai for future generations. RampMyCity encourages everyone to take part in this essential project. Corporations, non-profits, and individuals interested in supporting accessibility.” 

The journey of RampMyCity is rooted in Prateek Khandelwal’s personal experience. After suffering a spinal cord injury in 2014, Prateek became a wheelchair user, igniting his passion for advocating for accessibility and inclusion. His commitment to this cause has garnered recognition from esteemed organizations such as UNICEF, WHO, and the World Bank. Additionally, he has received prestigious accolades including the Universal Design Award (2021), the Sawai Award (2022), and the CNN Network 18 Award (2022).

Warner Bros. Discovery Unveils A Diverse Factual Entertainment Content Slate For South Asia

* Expanding strategic programming across streaming and linear television with discovery+, Discovery Channel, DTamil, Animal Planet, and TLC

Warner Bros. Discovery, a leader in the factual entertainment and lifestyle content space, has announced its content slate for streaming and linear platforms, with a strong emphasis on Indian originals. The company plans to significantly enhance programming across discovery+ and its linear channels, including Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and TLC, with a focus on a diverse and distinctive mix of local originals and global titles in India. By the end of this year, the cluster would have delivered over 4000 hours of fresh content across linear and discovery+ designed to engage and captivate viewers. Additionally, the revamped DTamil channel will showcase top global entertainment content, including Hollywood blockbuster movies and series, in the Tamil language, establishing itself as the go-to destination for dubbed films.

An internal study commissioned by Warner Bros. Discovery and Ormax Media revealed key trends, highlighting national pride, cultural preservation, and vicarious experiences as dominant themes within the non-fiction genre. It also showed a strong appeal for sub-genres like history, survival, wildlife, and food. Credibility also emerges as a critical need in the genre; as trust in digital media declines, this presents a unique opportunity for television to distinguish itself.

The first tentpole show under the India Originals roster on discovery+ and Discovery Channel was The Secrets of the Buddha Relics, hosted by Manoj Bajpayee and created by Neeraj Pandey. This compelling documentary delves into the final days of Gautam Buddha and the origins of his sacred relics.

Captivating audiences far and wide, is Reality Ranis of the Jungle, that premiered on September 23 and is hosted by Varun Sood. This exhilarating show follows twelve reality stars—including Pavitra Punia and Eksha Kerung—as they trade their luxurious lifestyles for an adventurous off-grid experience in the jungle.

For fans of history and exploration, discovery+ and Discovery Channel will soon unveil Mystery Hunter, hosted by the talented Rannvijay Singha, which delves into the mysteries of the past. The content lineup also includes the highly anticipated sequel, Star vs. Food Survival Season 2, featuring popular personalities from comedy, Bollywood, and cricket, including Kartik Aaryan, Shikhar Dhawan, Munawar Faruqui, and Shriya Saran, with Chef Ranveer Brar returning as the host.

Following the mega hit premiere of Legends of The Ramayana with Amish, a sequel titled Legends of Shiva is set to premiere in 2025. In addition, the second season of Cult has been renewed, promising to be just as gripping as its predecessor, My Daughter Joined the Cult. Together, these shows provide a captivating blend of action, discovery, and cultural insight.

Expressing his excitement, Sai Abishek, Head of Factual & Lifestyle Cluster at Warner Bros. Discovery, South Asia, remarked, “As the category leaders in the non-fiction content genre, our focus on enhancing viewer engagement and expanding our content offering is paramount. The newly announced India originals and our strategic programming across both linear and streaming platforms are a testament to our commitment to creating cross-platform experiences. The recent revamp of DTamil underscores our focus on bringing the best of global content in regional languages to Tamil audiences. We will continue to bolster our content library and deliver strong and compelling stories that reflect the interests of the Indian viewer and create value across India and South Asia.”

Warner Bros. Discovery’s factual and lifestyle business is set to enhance the content strategy, delivering captivating entertainment through a rich library of iconic brands, movies, and franchises.

·         discovery+ will continue to provide engaging programming, with highlights such as Chris Brown: A History of Violence (Oct 31) and Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking (Dec '25). BBC offerings like Dynasties S2 (Nov 18) and Frozen Planet II (Jan '25 TBC) will further enrich the platform's diverse slate.

·         Discovery Channel will launch five new series, including Jesus: Refugee, Renegade, Redeemer with Bear Grylls, Expedition Unknown Season 9, alongside Naked & Afraid: "Naked & Afraid XL S9" (Oct '24), "Naked & Afraid: Last One Standing S2" (Dec '24) and local originals like Star vs. Food Survival.

·         Animal Planet will debut 100+ hours of new programming, featuring predatory content and anthologies such as Deadly Strike and Snake Dynasty alongside year-end special 50 Days: 50 Tales.

·         TLC will also introduce over 100 hours of new shows, including festive specials for Halloween, Diwali, and Christmas, alongside new shows such as 100 Day Dream Home S2 & S3 and Forbidden Love.

·         Discovery Science will focus on medical science with titles like Dr. Pimple Popper, My Feet Are Killing Me, and Dinosaur with Stephen Fry.

·         Discovery Turbo will showcase two new launches each month, including Custom Carolina and Roadkill Garage.

·         Investigation Discovery (ID) will delve into relationship crimes with titles like Mother, May I Murder? and Married to Evil.

This diverse content library not only boosts overall viewership and engagement but also underscores the brand’s commitment to bringing global content to India and creating original stories that highlight historic, cultural, and grassroots narratives. With compelling offerings across adventure, history, exploration, lifestyle, and wildlife, Warner Bros. Discovery continues to attract top storytellers and strengthen its connection with diverse audiences across South Asia and beyond.

About Warner Bros. Discovery: Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: WBD) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content and brands across television, film and streaming. Available in more than 220 countries and territories and 50 languages, Warner Bros. Discovery inspires, informs and entertains audiences worldwide through its iconic brands and products including: Discovery Channel, discovery+, CNN, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, HGTV, Food Network, OWN, Investigation Discovery, TLC, Magnolia Network, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Bros. Television, Warner Bros. Games, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies, Discovery en Español, Hogar de HGTV and others. For more information, please visit www.wbd.com. Instagram: discovery+ | Discovery Channel India.

Paralympic Gold Medallist Nitesh Kumar Honoured As Health Champion Of The Year 2024 In Happiest Health’s New ‘Health Champion’ Initiative

* The initiative will recognise individuals who have either beaten the odds to overcome a health challenge or are caregivers to such a person

Health and wellness knowledge enterprise Happiest Health unveiled its ‘Health Champion’ initiative today, setting the stage for future events that’ll identify and honour people who have battled and overcome adverse health conditions. The initiative aims to reach out to everyone in the country who has either beaten the odds to overcome a health challenge or is a caregiver to such a person, recognising them as torchbearers and motivating them. Paralympic Gold medallist Nitesh Kumar was honoured as the Health Champion of the Year 2024 at the curtain-raiser event. The event was unveiled and inaugurated by him and the Chairman of Happiest Health, Ashok Soota, in the presence senior management and members of the media.

Ashok Soota, chairman of Happiest Health, said, “The rationale behind Happiest Health is that everyone has a right to live a life of dignity and health. And life is full of hurdles, some small, others monumental. ‘Health Champion’ is not just about personal victories but victories that inspire and uplift entire communities. This is not just an initiative—it is a movement, a revolution to change the way health challenges are perceived.”

Speaking on the jury for the first Health Champion of the Year Awards, he said: “For 2025, our health champion of the year will be selected by an esteemed jury led by the renowned Dr Devi Shetty. Doctor Shetty’s contributions to healthcare are unparalleled, always working to help people who are underprivileged or who have special problems. His involvement will ensure that the 2025 Health Champion is chosen with the highest degree of expertise and compassion.”

Mr Anindya Chowdhury, CEO of Happiest Health – Knowledge and Diagnostics, said, “The ‘Health Champion’ initiative marks a significant milestone in Happiest Health’s journey as we seek to spread our objective further and open up spaces for more people to express themselves. We are looking at collaborating with interested partners in the days ahead while we do so.”

Nitesh Kumar added, “While winning the Paralympic gold medal is a big achievement, being inspiring is greatly significant. If my journey can somehow kindle hope for someone overcoming their struggle to do better in life, it would be very fulfilling to me. My message to everyone is to be active physically, whether cycling, running, or walking. Play any sports for recreation and take good care of your health—eat healthy, sleep well, and keep screen time to a minimum.”

The initiative will feature two awards—Health Champion of the Quarter and Health Champion of the Year, with the first Health Champion of the Year Awards taking place next year in September. A selection panel will select winners from quarterly submissions based on the nominees’ stories’ ability to inspire and motivate others. Meanwhile, the jury deciding the Health Champion of the Year for 2025 will validate submissions based on predefined criteria aligned with the event’s objectives. Quarterly ‘Health Champions’ will be automatically eligible for the annual award.

Quarterly winners will receive a certificate of recognition, a monetary prize, a wellness package, and a feature article in the Happiest Health magazine, among other prizes. Annual ‘Health Champions’ will additionally receive speaking opportunities and media coverage.

Happiest Health is dedicated to giving a voice to the unsung heroes whose stories often go unnoticed. Happiest Health allows individuals to share their experiences of overcoming adversity and inspire others. It has been publishing hundreds of such stories of strength, believing it is its moral and social imperative to give a platform to them. By amplifying people’s strength, resilience, and hope, Happiest Health hopes to create a ripple effect of positive change and encourage more health champions and caregivers to come forward and share their inspiring journeys.

Nitesh Kumar’s performances at the 2024 Summer Paralympics culminated with him becoming only the country’s third para-badminton gold medallist. This accomplishment and his life’s journey epitomise the essence of the ‘Health Champion’ initiative as Happiest Health seeks to recognise similar stories and more.

Details on how to enter submissions: https://campaigns.happiesthealth.com/Health_Champion/

About Happiest Health

Happiest Health is a global health & wellness knowledge enterprise promoted by Ashok Soota. Happiest Health provides credible and trustworthy health and wellness knowledge with views from globally renowned experts and doctors. The primary knowledge platforms are the daily newsletter, knowledge website, and newly launched monthly print magazine, and knowledge app and summits. The wellness division of Happiest Health caters to corporates to achieve optimal employee well-being, fostering a happier, healthier, and more productive work environment. Happiest Health embraces scientific knowledge with a keen focus on medical breakthroughs providing kinder, gentler therapies including cell-based treatments. It also has deep coverage of integrated medicine including ayurveda, homeopathy, and naturopathy. Happiest Health’s focus on wellness is holistic and energizing. Its Mission Statement is: “Better Knowledge. Better Health.” And convey its benefits to all.

Photo Caption: Happiest Health, Chairman, Ashok Soota felicitates Paris 2024 Paralympic Badminton Gold Medalist – Nitesh Kumar as the Happiest Health Champion of 2024.