TKM, Government Of Mizoram And Zote Toyota Establishes Its 67th Toyota Technical Education Program And STAR Scholarship In Mizoram

Continuing its commitment to the nation’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ missions, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the launch of its 67th Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP) and the “Scholarship program for Technical Education and Recognition” [STAR] initiative under T-TEP at Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Aizwal, Mizoram.  Reaffirming TKM’s unwavering commitment to fostering skill development and enhancing employability opportunities across the area. The initiative is a collaboration between TKM, the Government of Mizoram, and dealership partner Zote Toyota, underscoring their shared commitment to enhancing youth employability and fostering skill development. The launch event was graced by Chief Guest Mr. Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of State - Labour, Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Dept. Government of Mizoram.

The primary objective of these initiatives is to improve the skills of students, particularly those from rural areas, and increase their employability through the company's unique program. This T-TEP facility focuses on the General Technician Category, delivering employable skills and knowledge to young talents pursuing courses in Mechanic Motor Vehicle (MMV) and Diesel Mechanic Trade. Zote Toyota, as a key partner, shares equal ownership in the establishment of T-TEP and is also contributing towards the STAR Scholarship Program, reinforcing their commitment to sustaining T-TEP operations and supporting deserving students.

T-TEP is a comprehensive, year-long initiative designed for final-year ITI and Diploma students. It combines On-the-Job Training (OJT) with a curriculum focused on equipping students with technical skills essential for the evolving needs of the Indian automotive industry. The program includes specialized training for lead trainers, practical experience at Toyota dealerships to boost employability, and a curriculum aligned with advanced automotive technologies. In addition to T-TEP, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) launched the STAR Scholarship Program to support economically disadvantaged students pursuing technical education. To date, over 13,000 students have been trained through T-TEP, with more than 70% securing employment in the automotive sector and its dealerships nationwide.

TKM has been a leader in supporting the local manufacturing ecosystem and empowering communities through skill development. With flagship initiatives such as the Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) and the Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP), TKM has been committed to providing world-class skilling to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds for over a decade. These programs are helping foster a skilled workforce to meet the growing demands of the industry.

Mr. Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of State - Labour, Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Dept. Government of Mizoram, said “It is truly encouraging to see TKM's continued commitment to uplifting the skills and employability of youth in Mizoram and beyond. The initiative brings valuable resources and training to our students, opening doors to professional growth and success in the automotive industry. This collaboration not only equips students with hands-on technical expertise but also plays a vital role in supporting our state's vision for skill development and economic empowerment. We look forward to seeing more of our youth build successful careers through this impactful program.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Governance, said, “At TKM, we believe that empowering young minds with the right skills is vital not only for individual growth but also for the nation's progress. Our initiatives like the Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP) and the STAR Scholarship Program are designed to create sustainable opportunities for students, particularly from underserved rural regions, to gain hands-on, industry-relevant skills. We are committed to bridging the gap between education and employability through these targeted initiatives. By partnering with technical institutes across the country, we aim to make a real difference in the lives of deserving students, providing them with pathways to quality education, skill development, and a strong foundation for a career in the automotive sector.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Zorammawia Tochhawng, Dealer Principal of Zote Toyota, said, “With the rapid technological advancements in the automotive industry, increasing motorization, and evolving customer expectations, the need for highly skilled technicians has never been greater. T-TEP rises to this challenge by equipping students with a comprehensive curriculum that integrates automobile fundamentals, cutting-edge technologies, Toyota’s core principles, and essential interpersonal skills. At Zote Toyota, we are deeply committed to nurturing these aspiring professionals by offering practical on-the-job training and fostering their overall skill development. Our shared responsibility in establishing and sustaining T-TEP, coupled with our equal contribution to the STAR Scholarship Program, ensures that financial constraints do not hinder deserving students. We aim to empower them to focus on learning and building promising careers in the automotive sector.”

Sharing his thoughts, Principal of Government Institute of Technical Training, Aizwal Mr. PC Lalhriatpuia said, “It is an honour for our institution to collaborate with TKM in bringing the Toyota Technical Education Program to Aizwal. This program is not just a training initiative; it is a gateway for students from rural communities to step into a world of opportunities within the automotive industry. The STAR Scholarship program, introduced under T-TEP, further strengthens this support by easing the financial burden for talented students pursuing technical education, allowing them to focus on learning rather than financial constraints. With Toyota’s investment in our institution, including state-of-the-art tools, equipment, and faculty training, our students will gain industry-relevant skills and invaluable hands-on experience to prepare them for successful careers.”

TKM, in collaboration with its dealer partner, has invested over Rs 1.5 million in enhancing infrastructure, developing e-learning content, and providing engines, transmissions, practice kits, and faculty training through its unique Train-The-Trainer approach. Additionally, TKM introduced the STAR (Scholarship Program for Technical Education and Recognition) under T-TEP. The STAR program aims to empower deserving students from economically challenged backgrounds to pursue higher studies in technical institutes (ITIs/Polytechnics). Eligible students can receive scholarships of up to Rs 51,000 per year, covering hostel fees, educational expenses, and family support.

Following its inauguration in Mizoram, this program will further extend its benefits to students across 10 states—Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Nagaland, Assam, Manipur, Tripura, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh—as well as the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. TKM is committed to expanding the T-TEP initiative to rural areas to meet the automotive industry's requirements, promoting skill development, and providing opportunities for talented students to excel in the sector. Since its inception in 2006, T-TEP has continually evolved to meet the ever-changing demands of the automotive industry, contributing significantly to the automotive sector and the "Skill India" mission.

MAHE Celebrates New Year With Grand Awards Ceremony, Honoring Exceptional Achievements Across Fields

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) hosted it’s annual New Year Awards Ceremony on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the scenic KMC Greens, honoring the exceptional achiever across fields which bringing together distinguished guests, faculty, students, and the wider community to celebrate excellence, dedication, and impact. This year’s ceremony recognized four remarkable individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their respective fields and society. The honorees were celebrated for their tireless commitment to justice, arts, philanthropy, and healthcare, each having demonstrated exceptional leadership and service. ways in culture, literature and have even created awareness in this unprecedented situation. 

The event spearhead by Dr H S Ballal - Pro Chancellor & President, Academy of General Education, MAHE and the felicitation address was given by Lt Gen (Dr.) MD Venkatesh VSM (Retd) - Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Dr Ranjan R Pai Chairman - MEMG President - MAHE Trust Registrar – AGE, Shri T Satish U Pai Executive Chairman Manipal Media Network Ltd Vice President – AGE & Shri T Ashok Pai, President Dr. TMA Pai Foundation Manipal.

The winners of this year were : Justice P Vishwanatha Shetty Former Lokayukta, State of Karnataka Former Judge, High Court of Karnataka Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India, Dr Vasundhara Doraswamy Director Vasundhara Performing Arts Centre Mysore, Karnataka, Shri Tekkar Yashwanth Prabhu Former Chairman & Managing Director Oriental Bank of Commerce, New Delhi & Dr P Mohan Rao Medical Advisor, Titan Company Ltd., Bengaluru Former Executive Director - MVJ Medical College, Hoskote.

Justice P Vishwanatha Shetty (Law and Justice : Born on May 2, 1944 in Udupi, Justice P. Vishwanatha Shetty is a leading Indian jurist. He began his legal career in 1966 and founded Shetty & Hegde Associates in 1971 and was also a part-time professor at Government Law College, Bangalore. Justice Shetty is a champion of legal reforms and was instrumental in the setting up of the National Law School of India University, where he remained from 1995 until 2006 as a permanent Judge of the Karnataka High Court. He headed the Karnataka Judicial Academy and the Karnataka Legal Services Authority, among other things, by designing novel legal programs. After retirement, Justice Shetty continued practicing law and was appointed Karnataka's Lokayukta in 2017, championing transparency and anti-corruption.

Dr Vasundhara Doraswamy (Bharatanatyam): is a prominent Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, and Guru who runs the Vasundhara Performing Arts Centre in Mysore. She has been a disciple of Guru Pattabhi Jois in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and combines this with traditional Bharatanatyam and martial arts. Her *Panchali* and *Kshaatra Draupadi* are highly acclaimed choreographies globally for their richness and fusion of dance forms. She was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2022, is an A-graded artist with Doordarshan, and has performed globally. Generations of dancers are nurtured at her Centre, and in her book, *Natya Yoga Darshana*, she explores the confluence of dance and spirituality.

Shri Tekkar Yashwanth Prabhu (Banker and Philanthropist), born on December 30, 1950, in Uppinangady, is a distinguished banker and philanthropist with over four decades of experience in the Indian banking sector. He started his career as a clerk at Canara Bank in 1970 and rose to General Manager, overseeing key domains like Corporate Credit and International Operations, including a tenure in Hong Kong. Shri Prabhu later served as Executive Director at Union Bank of India and Chairman & Managing Director at Oriental Bank of Commerce. He also served as part-time chairman at Dhan Laxmi Bank. Presently, he is an Independent Director on various boards.

Dr P Mohan Rao (Cardiology and Healthcare): a cardiologist and health care leader, hails from Udupi, Karnataka and was born in 1940. This medical doctor has over six decades of experience and holds an MD in General Medicine and fellowships from the Indian Society of Electro cardiology and the Indian College of Cardiology. Dr. Rao is privileged to have held senior posts such as Vice President of the Indian College of Cardiology and President of the Cardiological Society of India, Bangalore Chapter.

The ceremony, held in KMC Greens, was graced by the presence of the faculty, students, alumni, and well-wishers gathered to pay tribute to these outstanding people for their remarkable contributions to society. The whole event was complemented by very moving speeches by the awardees and heartfelt tributes to the respective legacies.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr H S Ballal - Pro Chancellor & President, Academy of General Education, MAHE said, “For sure, it has been a rare honour for all of us who are hosting such a wonderful ceremony to recognize excellent contributions and distinguished achievements by all four awardees. Here's my tribute to each for their unshakable perseverance and spirit in their work and life. A new educational pattern is being constructed, and innovative ideas and exciting ways of explorations are need of the time. We shall have to strengthen liberal arts as well as social sciences. We are proud to acknowledge the hard work and the significant impact these individuals have had in their fields, which has contributed immensely to the betterment of society”. 

Lt Gen (Dr.) MD Venkatesh VSM (Retd) - Vice Chancellor, MAHE, “We are thrilled to congratulate the outstanding achievements of the new year awardees, and this is definitely a great opportunity for us. We appreciate their incomparable contributions to literature, agriculture, medicine, culture, and mankind. They have crossed all limits of duty to set an example for others to emulate and instil virtues in society. The most effective method of addressing the issues of society or raising the awareness of such issues is through these literary and artistic disciplines. Honouring the achievers serves a double purpose: not only does it show appreciation and recognition for their hard work, but it also serves as a springboard for young people to aim higher".

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams; through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bangalore, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

Vi Customers Can Experience Live Darshan Of The Maha Kumbh Mela

·         Vi users can watch live coverage including Shahi Snans, Akhara processions, and the Ganga Aarti, directly from Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj via the Vi Movies & TV App or Vi App, powered by Shemaroo

The Maha Kumbh Mela, a once-in-12-years spiritual phenomenon spanning 156 km*, with 22 pontoon bridges, is being held from 13th January to 26th February, 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This massive event is expected to have a footfall of 40 crore pilgrims this year, making it one of the largest human gatherings.

To make The Maha Kumbh Mela accessible to all, leading telecom operator Vi has partnered with Shemaroo to live-stream it on Vi Movies & TV.

Vi customers can experience the Shahi Snans on Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), and Maha Shivratri (February 26), as saints and devotees take holy dips in the sacred waters. Users can also access exclusive recorded content, anchored tours of Akharas, cultural performances of folk music and devotional songs, as well as stories of the colossal infrastructure supporting millions of pilgrims. Special features include interviews with saints and spiritual leaders; special features on Kalpvasis, and touching stories from first-time visitors.

This initiative underscores Vi’s commitment to leverage technology for connecting people. With Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities driving 60% of new OTT viewership growth, fueled by the rising demand for local and spiritual content, Vi is ensuring that the Maha Kumbh Mela remains accessible to all. Devotees can embark on this spiritual journey on the Vi Movies & TV App OR Vi App under the Vi Movies & TV Tab, and live stream the content anytime, anywhere– powered by Shemaroo.

To provide an unparalleled experience to its users, Vi has significantly enhanced its 4G network all over India, by adding 46,000 new sites and enhancing capacity of 58000+ sites resulting in superior connectivity across the country. As highlighted in Opensignal’s November 2024 report, Vi’s 4G network has emerged top in key categories such as 4G live video experience, 4G download and upload speeds, and gaming performance across the country.

GUESS JEANS Launches In India In Partnership With Tata CLiQ

~This long-term partnership aims to expand Guess Jeans retail presence in India through physical stores and digital storefronts, thus supporting omnichannel growth for the brand~

Guess Inc., which operates the GUESS brand in India under its subsidiary, Guess India Pvt Ltd, will launch GUESS JEANS, a California-based denim lifestyle brand, in the country through a strategic long-term franchise partnership with Tata Group’s multi-category e-commerce platform, Tata CLiQ (Tata UniStore Limited).

As part of this partnership, Tata CLiQ will be the official retailer for GUESS JEANS in India, expanding their retail presence through brick-and-mortar stores along with digital storefronts, thus building an omnichannel presence for the brand.

Nicolai Marciano, Chief New Business Development Officer at Guess Inc., conceived and launched the brand GUESS JEANS. Known for its quality, style, and commitment to sustainability, GUESS JEANS is poised to captivate the discerning Indian consumer. The brand's partnership with Tata CLiQ ensures a seamless shopping experience, enabling fashion-forward individuals to effortlessly access the latest collections.

The partnership between GUESS JEANS and Tata CLiQ will play a crucial role in expanding distribution channels, supporting GUESS JEANS’ strategy to roll out its network of stores nationwide. This expansion marks a significant milestone, not just for GUESS JEANS but also for the GUESS? Inc business.

Nicolai Marciano, Chief New Business Development Officer, Guess Inc., said, “As the next step in our global growth initiative for GUESS JEANS, we expect a rapidly expanding and prosperous partnership with Tata CLiQ, which is part of the Tata Group in India. Our brand's legacy, heritage, and innovative outlook on denim, paired with the local knowledge and expertise of Tata Group, ensure a strong and enduring partnership. GUESS JEANS will complement and create significant incremental growth in India for the GUESS? Inc portfolio by targeting a new customer with accessible pricing, a casual aesthetic, and a modern communication strategy. We are confident that the reimagined GUESS JEANS brand, accompanied by our innovative GUESS AIRWASHTM technology, has long-term potential within the Indian market.”

Commenting about this partnership, Gopal Asthana, CEO, Tata CLiQ, said, “At Tata CLiQ, our mission is to partner with renowned global brands that align with the aspirations and needs of consumers in the country. We are thrilled to be the preferred partner of GUESS JEANS for their India launch. With our shared vision of bringing trendy merchandise and innovative shopping experiences to consumers, at Tata CLiQ, we are committed to offering an elevated brand experience across different channels. We look forward to building and growing the brand by strategically bolstering its omnichannel presence across the country.”

Founded in the casual ease at the heart of the Californian lifestyle, GUESS JEANS refines wardrobe classics central to the brands heritage, focusing on seasonless core styles from outerwear and knitwear to denim. The brand offers a diverse range of denim styles for both men and women. From classic straight-leg jeans to contemporary skinny fits, each piece embodies the brand's signature blend of timeless appeal and modern edge.

GUESS JEANS reconnects with the essence of the brand that changed the culture of denim. The timeless proposal reimagines and refines the authentic West Coast wardrobe epitomised by GUESS through contemporary values and vision. When the Marciano brothers founded GUESS in 1981, they brought to fashion the stone washing process that would transform the face of denim forever. Its modern-day counterpart, GUESS AIRWASHTM is the future of denim: a cutting-edge technology that recreates the stone washed look through a sustainable lens.

In 2024, Nicolai Marciano and GUESS JEANS worked with Jeanologia to reinvent the mechanics of the brand’s own making, creating the innovative and sustainable GUESS AIRWASHTM technology. GUESS AIRWASHTM largely replaces the water used in stone washing with air and bubbles. The practice – which also eliminates the use of pumice stones – significantly decreases the water and energy consumption of stone washing.

GUESS JEANS encompasses a complete wardrobe with GUESS AIRWASHTM denim as its focal point.

About Guess? Inc.

Guess?, Inc. designs, markets, distributes and licenses a lifestyle collection of contemporary apparel, denim,

handbags, watches, eyewear, footwear and other related consumer products. Guess? products are distributed through branded Guess? stores as well as better department and specialty stores around the world. As of October 28, 2023, the Company directly operated 1,015 retail stores in Europe, the Americas and Asia. The Company’s partners and distributors operated 544 additional retail stores worldwide. As of October 28, 2023, the Company and its partners and distributors operated in approximately 100 countries worldwide. For more information about the Company, please visit www.guess.com.

About GUESS JEANS

GUESS JEANS is an American west coast lifestyle brand rooted in a 40-year denim legacy. Conceived by Nicolai Marciano, GUESS JEANS embodies the next era of denim fashion, with a commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge innovation. GUESS JEANS offers a full line of core basics focusing on denim that encapsulates the timeless essence of GUESS, seamlessly blending the brand’s rich heritage with a contemporary perspective. As of 3rd June 2024, GUESS JEANS is available on GUESSJEANS.com, in an all new fleet of GUESS JEANS stores worldwide and through select wholesale partners.

Join the GUESS JEANS community: @GUESSJEANS #GUESSJEANS

About Jeanologia

Since 1994, Jeanologia’s mission has been to create an ethical, sustainable, and eco-efficient textile industry. The company collaborates closely with brands, retailers, and their suppliers on their transformative journey. Jeanologia offers disruptive technologies, innovative software, and a new operational model. Their groundbreaking solutions, including laser technology, G2 ozone, Dancing Box, e-flow, and H2Zero, have revolutionized the textile industry,

providing limitless design and garment finishing possibilities. These advancements not only reduce costs but also conserve water, energy, and chemicals, ensuring zero pollution. Today, Jeanologia encourages all textile industry stakeholders to get behind their Mission Zero: dehydrate and detoxify the jean industry. jeanologia.com

About Tata UniStore Limited (TUL):

Tata UniStore Limited, a subsidiary of Tata Digital Pvt Limited and part of the Tata Group, spearheads the group’s flagship multi-category e-commerce initiative, Tata CLiQ. Operating under Tata UniStore Limited, Tata CLiQ encompasses two distinct verticals: Tata CLiQ Fashion, an omnichannel marketplace, specialising in fashion, lifestyle, and beauty via Tata CLiQ Palette, and Tata CLiQ Luxury, dedicated to the luxury segment. Each platform features a curated selection of products spanning fashion, luxury, and beauty from renowned global and Indian brands. With pan-India access, technology-driven innovations, and consumer-centric policies, these platforms deliver a seamless and delightful shopping experience.

PAN India’s 30th CME Seminar Highlights Importance Of Nutrition Based Intervention Into Healthcare Systems

·         Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) accounts for 66% of all mortality in the country

·         Two-thirds of Indians with NCDs fall within the 26-59 age group

·         A sustainable healthcare system that prioritizes nutrition and lifestyle modification is the need of the hour

The Physicians Association for Nutrition India (PAN India) in collaboration with Indian Medical Association (IMA) Bengaluru with accreditation of KMC  (Karnataka Medical Council) points, today conducted its 30th Continuing Medical Education (CME) seminar for doctors in Bengaluru to emphasize the importance of Evidence Based Nutrition (EBN) Intervention in clinical practices to prevent and treat Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in the country. Renowned doctors from the city and experts from PAN India engaged with the healthcare community gathered at the event, through a series of keynote sessions, panel discussions and workshops, to empower the community with skill sets to practice nutritional intervention effectively.

PAN India’s CMEs aim to bridge the gap between medicine and nutrition by empowering doctors with the tools to address root cause of diseases, fostering healthier communities nationwide.

Addressing the audience, Dr. Hemalatha R, ex-Director of ICMR-NIN, delivered an impactful keynote address on "Integrating Nutrition Science into Lifestyle Disease Management: Evidence-Based Approaches for Practicing Doctors,". She highlighted that "India faces a unique and alarming nutrition crisis, with abdominal obesity being more prevalent than overall obesity. More than 50% of the population suffers from diet-related disorders, including obesity, diabetes type 2, fatty liver etc. Unhealthy diets account for over 56% of the country’s disease burden, and the impact begins as early as fetal development, with pregnant women consuming processed foods and sugars risking their children’s cognitive health. This underscores the urgent need to shift towards balanced diets rich in pulses, legumes, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, aligning with global recommendations to combat this alarming unhealthy diet”.

Dr. Rajeena Shahin, Medical Director of PAN India, envisions transforming healthcare into a whole-person care model with nutrition at its core. She advocates leveraging scientific advancement in nutrition to combat NCDs, enhance health span, and optimize human potential. Firmly rooted in evidence-based approaches, Dr. Rajeena calls for liberating healthcare from tricks, tips, fads and vested interests by empowering doctors with nutrition science. She emphasizes the profound connection between individual lifestyle choices, planetary health, and sustainability, championing a healthcare system that prioritizes nutrition and lifestyle modifications as the foundation for health equity and a healthier, more productive India.

Dr. G. Rajendiran, MBBS, MD, DM (Cardiology), Prof & Head of Preventive Cardiology, PSGIMSR, Coimbatore Director-VR Heart health initiative, emphasized the importance of whole food plant-based diet in prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases.  This gains importance given the increasing prevalence and mortality despite the recent medical advances.

Panel I emphasized the integration of nutrition into NCD management, focusing on diet's role in obesity, metabolic diseases, and infertility. Doctors (Dr. Sandhya Ravi, Dr. T.V. Seshagiri, Dr. Priya Chinnappa, Dr. Blessan Varghese, Dr. Vithal D. Bagi, Dr. Narasimhaiah, Dr. Chandrika Anand, Dr. Krishnamurthy Jayanna, Dr. Stephen Anthony, Dr. H V Shivaram, Dr. Monika Pansari, Ms. Edwina Raj and Dr. Gayathri) from top medical hospitals across cities shared insights on addressing these issues through a holistic approach.

Panel II presented eminent lifestyle physicians & experts to debunk the myths surrounding nutrition. Lifestyle physicians, who are trained to manage NCDs through dietary interventions, played a key role in clarifying misconceptions. Experts on the panel included Dr. Prathima Kini, Dr. Veena Acharya, Dr. G. Rajendiran, Dr. Suvetha Kannappan, Dr. Naveen Kini, Rashi Tiwari, Dr. Shalini P, Dr. Palaniyamma Durairaj, Dr. Mahesh K. Mahadevappa, and Dr. Silja Sudhir.

Vi Launches India’s First Truly Unlimited Data Plan, ‘Nonstop Hero’

·         Empowering a hyper connected India with seamless, worry-free telecom experiences

In today’s hyper-connected world, uninterrupted access to data is a necessity. As mobile data powering everything from work to education to health to leisure to lifestyle, the demand for a reliable, worry-free data experience has never been greater. Addressing this need, India’s leading telecom operator Vi, today announced the launch of Nonstop Hero, India’s first truly unlimited data plan.

Designed to address the issue of data quota exhaustion for prepaid customers, the Nonstop Hero Plan aims to offer a worry-free data experience throughout the entire validity period. 

India is witnessing a data revolution. According to a recent report by the Centre for Digital Economy & Policy Research*, data consumption in India has grown by 288 times over the past decade. As per the TRAI annual report*, backed by increased penetration of affordable smartphones, the number of internet subscribers in the country surged from 88.1 crore in March 2023 to 95.4 crore by March 2024 and average monthly data usage per user, reached 20.27GB as of March 2024.

The Vi Nonstop Hero plan caters to this booming demand for high-speed connectivity, offering truly unlimited data, unlimited voice calls, and 100 SMS/day clubbed with OTT benefits, across a variety of recharge packs.

Vi, recently recognized by Opensignal as India’s Best 4G Network provider as reflected in Opensignal’s 4G Network Experience Report November 2024#, leads in offering the best customer experience across data speed, voice, gaming, and video streaming. This new offering underscores Vi’s commitment to putting customers first, empowering them to embrace the digital revolution without limits.

Commenting on their customer-first approach, Avneesh Khosla, CMO, Vodafone Idea said “At Vi, we are committed to offering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. With the launch of Nonstop Hero, we are setting a new benchmark in data access and empowering our users to make the most of their digital experiences without any interruptions.

Starting at just Rs 365, the Nonstop Hero plan will be currently available in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh, with benefits varying across recharge packs to suit different customer needs.

Vi Nonstop Hero is intended for personal use only and is not available for commercial usage by any entity. 

About Vodafone Idea Limited

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service provider. The company provides pan India Voice and Data services across 2G and 4G platforms. Company holds large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mmWave 5G spectrum in 16 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the company is committed to deliver delightful customer experiences and contribute towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India. The company offers products and services to its customers in India under the TM Brand name “Vi”.  For more information,  visit: www.MyVi.in

7th Edition Of Manipal Marathon To Focus On Technology In Fitness Unveils Promo Run To Encourage Marathon Enthusiasts

* Indian Cricketer Shreyanka Patil flagged off the run at 7.00 AM

* For its 7th Edition Manipal Marathon embraces the theme "Innovation in Motion" with the tagline "Embracing Technology for Health and Fitness"

The highly anticipated 7th edition of Manipal Marathon was kicked off by Indian cricketer Shreyanka Patil today at 6.30 AM today at MAHE Bengaluru campus. The great Manipal Marathon 2025, which is scheduled for February 9, 2025, in Manipal Udupi district, is preceded by this event.

Manipal Marathon has solidified its position as the biggest student organized marathon in India with over 20,000 participants from across the Nation and Globe. Manipal Marathon embraces the theme "Innovation in Motion" with the tagline "Embracing Technology for Health and Fitness". This theme reflects the event's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology in promoting health and fitness.

The marathon routes certified internationally by the IAAF AIMS, will take participants through the breathtaking landscapes of Manipal and along the stunning Udupi coastline. It will not only offer an exhilarating race experience but will also host a grand carnival celebration post-run. Beyond the festivities, the event provides substantial prize money, drawing elite athletes and passionate runners alike.

“The Manipal Marathon is a testament to the power of health, fitness, and community spirit”, said Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu P, Deputy Registrar - MAHE Bengaluru Campus. The Manipal Marathon has developed into a legendary event in India’s marathon circuit. This marathon demonstrates how technology can improve our health and make running more enjoyable for everyone. The marathon is a way to inspire people towards good health and fitness that must be part of everyone’s life. 

Indian cricket player Ms. Shreyanka Patil expressed her excitement at the unveiling, “I am quite thrilled to be part of such a phenomenal and inspiring Manipal Marathon 2025 that provides a platform for people from all walks of life to participate in this run with great spirits. Every athlete, need to run to stay healthy and this event skilfully combines wellness and technology.

The theme “Innovation in Motion” perfectly aligns with the evolving landscape of fitness”, said Mr. Ravindra Rai M. Managing Director & CEO of BOBCARD Limited, underscoring the significance of innovation in sports. Training, performance monitoring and injury prevention are all being greatly enhanced by technology. This marathon is a fantastic way to encourage the next generation to continue being active. My heartiest congratulations to MAHE for their commitment towards hosting this marathon year on year consistently which brings together thousands of people for a common cause.”

Shika Shetty, Manager of the Visually Challenged Indian Cricket Team; Kiran Kumar, Senior Vice President of Marketing at UNext Learning Private Limited; Dr. Vinod C. Nayak, Secretary of the Sports Council at MAHE, Manipal; Ms. Anjana Chandran, Associate Director at Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt. Ltd.; along with other officials from the MAHE Bengaluru campus, were present at the event. More than fifty visually challenged participants took part in the Promo Run in a special category alongside 1,500 students and other marathon enthusiasts.

Registration for the event closes soon. The deadline for registration is January 31, 2025. Runners still have the chance to participate in this amazing race, with the last event set for February 9, 2025, in Manipal.

For registration & other information visit : https://manipalmarathon.in/

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams; through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bangalore, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.