Jagadeesh, Deputy Superintendent Of Police, Flags Off Southern Leg Of NueGo’s Kashmir To Kanyakumari Expedition

India’s first electric intercity bus brand launches a historic initiative to promote green mobility nationwide

In its mission to promote sustainable transportation across India, NueGo—the country’s first organized electric intercity brand under GreenCell Mobility—flagged off the Southern leg of its iconic Kashmir to Kanyakumari (K2K) electric bus expedition today at its Bangalore Depot. The Bangalore flag-off ceremony was graced by Shri Jagadeesh, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Nelamangala, Bangalore, along with other distinguished dignitaries like Mr. Manjunath, Commissioner, City Municipal Corporation, Mr. Ravikumar, Traffic Police Inspector, Nelamangala, Mr. K.M. Siddahonnappa, Fire Station Officer, Nelamangala, Mr. Murlidhar, Police Inspector, Madanayakanahalli

The K2K electric bus expedition, which commenced its journey from Kashmir, is now entering the southern phase. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and emitting zero tail-pipe emissions, this all-electric bus aims to set new records by covering over 4,000 kilometers through 11 states and union territories. The journey, which has already spanned approximately 3300 kilometers, highlights the feasibility of EVs for intercity travel across challenging terrains and weather conditions. Along the way, the bus will engage with the public in multiple cities, fostering discussions on sustainability.

This phase of the expedition follows previous flag-offs in other regions, including Nagpur, where Hon'ble Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India Sh. Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the western section, emphasizing the importance of EVs in India’s transport ecosystem.

Mr. Devndra Chawla, CEO and MD of GreenCell Mobility also emphasized the need for green mass mobility solutions in India. " NueGo's ambitious E-K2K journey will see us travel over 4,000 Kms from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, demonstrating the resilience of electric buses across diverse terrains. This expedition is more than just a record-breaking feat; it symbolizes India's rich cultural heritage. By passing through 200+ cities and towns, the journey aims to raise awareness about cleaner modes of travel and inspire a transition to EV buses. Engaging in various impactful activities, the E-K2K bus truly embodies the spirit of -the E-bus that does good."

This green journey underscores NueGo’s commitment to sustainable mobility and spreading awareness about electric vehicles (EVs) across the nation.

NueGo currently operates in over 100 cities, providing more than 450 daily departures with a fleet of 250 electric buses. These vehicles undergo 25 rigorous safety inspections, including electrical and mechanical tests, ensuring reliability for passengers. With a range of over 250 kilometers on a single charge, NueGo buses feature premium travel services such as airport-like lounges, geo-location tracking, and luxury guest experiences.

The company also champions women’s safety, offering Pink Seats, a 24x7 women’s helpline, CCTV monitoring, GPS tracking, and driver alcohol tests, ensuring safe and comfortable journeys for all passengers.

As NueGo’s electric bus travels through different regions, it not only sets benchmarks for electric mobility but also promotes India’s rich cultural heritage along the way. Through the K2K journey, NueGo aims to inspire individuals and institutions to adopt sustainable travel solutions and demonstrate that electric vehicles are a viable and essential future for intercity travel.

Ather Energy Introduces Ather Care Service Plans For Its Customers

-          All plans to cover a duration of 1 year or 10,000kms, whichever comes first

Ather Energy, a pioneer in the electric two-wheeler industry in India, introduced the Ather Care service plans for its customers. The Ather Care plans cover free periodic maintenance, offer discounts on wear-and-tear part replacements, and include value-added services such as ExpressCare and Polishing, providing customers with both convenience and savings.

With more customers transitioning out of the initial 3 year warranty, Ather recognized the need for a plan that would help minimize the financial ambiguity of periodic maintenance. Ather Care offers three care plans — Ather Care, Ather Care Plus, and Ather Care Max—allowing customers to choose a plan that suits their needs. All three Ather Care plans are structured to cover a duration of 1 year or 10,000 kms, whichever comes first, ensuring comprehensive maintenance options for Ather owners.

Details of the Ather Care plans:

*        Ather Care: Includes 2 free periodic maintenance, a 10% discount on wear and tear parts once a year, and a 10% discount on labor for wear and tear replacements once a year.

*        Ather Care Plus: Offers 2 free periodic maintenance, 1 free polishing, 1 free wash, a 10% discount on wear and tear parts (twice a year), and a 15% discount on labor for wear and tear replacements (twice a year).

*       Ather Care Max: A comprehensive plan that offers 2 free periodic maintenances, 2 free brake pad replacements, 2 free washes, 2 free ExpressCare services, 2 free polishings, free belt lubrication, a 10% discount on wear and tear parts (twice a year), and a 15% discount on labor for wear and tear replacements (twice a year).

Customers will be able to purchase the plan at any of Ather’s authorized 210 Service Centers or 230 Experience Centers as of September 30, 2024 and can redeem their Ather Care benefits exclusively at the dealership where they purchase the plan. The prices of the plans range from ?1130 to  ?2400, and offer benefits of up to  ?5900 for customers, depending on the plan and the city it is purchased in. With the Ather Care plans, Ather is addressing a key concern among EV owners, that is, the perceived high cost of maintenance of Electric two-wheelers. 

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).