GAIL Organizes Cyclothon As Part Of Sakhsam 2024-25 To Promote Clean Environment

GAIL (India) Limited, as part of its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, successfully organized a Cyclothon  in Bengaluru today at Sahakar Nagar playground as part of the Sakhsam 2024-25 initiative. This year’s theme, "Cleaner Environment through Green and Clean Energy," was brought to life through an engaging and fun-filled cycling event that highlighted the importance of clean energy and eco-friendly practices.

Around 100 members including GAIL employees and their family members actively participated in the event, reflecting the company's dedication to fostering a sustainable environment while promoting health and wellness. The Cyclothon provided participants an opportunity to actively engage in environmentally conscious activities while raising awareness about the critical role of green energy in protecting our planet.

The Sakhsam 2024-25 program, organized by GAIL (India) Limited, aims to accelerate the adoption of green energy solutions, promote energy efficiency, and reduce the overall carbon footprint across industries, residential spaces, and transportation. This initiative will also strengthen the country's efforts towards climate change mitigation and achieving its sustainability goals.

Main theme of Saksham is Promotion of Renewable Energy: The initiative focuses on advancing the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy. Through strategic investments and partnerships, GAIL (India) Limited aims to help transition to a low-carbon future by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Energy Efficiency Programs: A variety of energy-efficient solutions will be introduced to optimize energy consumption in both industrial and residential sectors. Programs to upgrade infrastructure and implement energy-saving technologies will be rolled out.

With the goal of reducing carbon emissions, the initiative aims to meet and surpass environmental targets set by national and global frameworks. Clean energy technologies and practices will play a vital role in this effort.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns are also held  by GAIL as part of this initiative in Resident Welfare Associations, Schools, Government offices etc. . to educate the citizens of Bengaluru and beyond about clean energy alternatives, eco-friendly practices, and the importance of energy conservation.

Fastrack Launches Award-Winning “BARE Collection” For The Fashion-Forward Youth

~The bold transparent design has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Designs at the prestigious 24th CII India Design Summit 2024~

Fastrack, India's leading youth fashion accessories brand has introduced its latest unisex collection BARE, an innovative transparent watch that celebrates raw authenticity and unfiltered self-expression. The collection has already garnered recognition as one of the Top 50 Designs in the Product Design Category at the prestigious 24th CII India Design Summit 2024.

The BARE collection showcases a striking skeletal dial complemented by bold aluminum bezel rings in 6 vibrant colours, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary watch design. Priced at INR 2195, the collection makes bold fashion accessible to style-conscious youth across India.

With the tagline of “Too Bare To Care”, the campaign highlights the unique design of the watch while celebrating those who keep are not afraid to show who they are.

Speaking at the launch, Danny Jacob, Head of Marketing at Fastrack, said, "Today’s youth navigate a digital world brimming with hyper-curated, picture-perfect content. But what often gets hidden are the raw, unfiltered realities—flaws, slip-ups, bloopers—that make us beautifully human. It takes boldness and authenticity to show up as your true self in a world that favors perfection. We want to celebrate those fearless enough to embrace the messy, imperfect, and wonderfully real moments of being unapologetically human!"

The Fastrack BARE collection has 6 SKUs and is now available across all Fastrack retail outlets, Titan World stores, authorised dealers, and leading online platforms. You can also browse the collection online at - https://www.fastrack.in/collection-bare.html.

The campaign is now live: https://www.instagram.com/p/DEKT2RvTizG/

Coca-Cola Debuts Exciting New “Halftime” Campaign, Inspiring Fans To Feel The Refresh In Everyday Moments

Campaign Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD87m1LvS40

Coca-Cola is kicking off a game-changing new campaign, "Halftime," inspiring fans to embrace the magic of a pause—a moment to reset, refresh, and reignite before diving back into life. Rooted in the universal essence of halftime in sports, this campaign transforms an ordinary pause into a meaningful experience.

Launched globally, Halftime comes to life through a blend of storytelling, brand films, and digital experiences, showing how a simple break can bring a fresh perspective. And leading the way is India, where the first film highlights how a sip of Coca-Cola turns fleeting moments into something special. Whether it is players pausing mid-match for a quick recharge, the campaign reminds us that the best way to keep moving forward is to take a Halftime.

Adding to the experience is a lively anthem crafted by VML Delhi, directed by award-winning Dibakar Banerjee, with music by Sneha Khanwalkar and lyrics by Khullar G. The anthem captures everyday moments in a way that feels real and relatable, making Halftime a natural part of life.

Babita Baruah, CEO, VML India elaborated, “Coca-Cola has always defined culture with its campaigns, and we believe we have done just that with the Halftime campaign. The insight is truly global in its appeal and the fact that the campaign takes off from India makes us very proud.”

Dibakar Banerjee said, “The crucial thing for the halftime concept to work was to root it in our country where we are never doing just one thing but many. So, for instance, a street festival in our country has the organiser taking care of the chaos and swaying to the madness as well. So, a halftime is from both things.”

Kaushik Prasad, Senior Director, Marketing for Coca-Cola category at The Coca-Cola Company's India and Southwest Asia Operating Unit said, “In today’s fast-moving world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a pause. For decades, Coca-Cola has been a part of people’s everyday moments, offering a simple yet uplifting break. With ‘Halftime,’ we’re not just celebrating a pause—we’re making it a refreshing moment of connection and joy that brings people back to what they love, with a chilled Coca-Cola in hand."

Coca-Cola's Big Game Moment: Halftime Meets Cricket

As cricket fever takes over, Coca-Cola is turning the India vs. Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy match on February 23 into a first-of-its-kind, interactive Halftime experience. Viewers can scan a QR code displayed on the Aston band during the live broadcast to unlock an exclusive limited-time offer—Coca-Cola at half price. This thrilling innovation transforms a game break into an unforgettable, refreshing reset, proving that Halftime isn’t just a pause; it’s a celebration.

Join the Halftime Movement

From sharing a laugh to capturing a moment on camera, from stepping back to stepping up, Coca-Cola’s Halftime campaign turns everyday pauses into something worth savoring. Because sometimes, the best part of the day isn’t about rushing ahead—it’s about taking a moment to truly enjoy it.

About The Coca?Cola Company   

The Coca?Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca?Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.coca-colacompany.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.   

Punjab National Bank Revises Interest Rates On Retail Loans

Punjab National Bank (PNB), nation’s leading public sector bank, has announced a revision in its interest rates across various loan products, effective from 10.02.2025. The rate adjustment aligns with the Bank’s commitment to providing competitive financial solutions while adapting to evolving market conditions. The revised rates apply to a wide range of products, including home loans, car loans, education and personal loans, ensuring that customers continue to receive diverse financing options.

Home Loans: PNB has made homeownership more accessible by revising its home loan interest rates and waiving key charges such as:

PNB Digi Home Loan: With an attractive ROI starting from 8.15% per annum, customers can avail home loans up to Rs 5 crore digitally from anywhere. EMI starts from Rs 744 per lakh, making home financing more affordable. This scheme offers nil prepayment charges with zero processing fees and documentation charges. Customers can apply conveniently through online platform by logging in to https://digihome.pnb.co.in/pnb/hl/

PNB Home Loan: This traditional home loan scheme offers ROI starting from 8.15% per annum with an EMI of Rs 744 per lakh. Customers can benefit from a complete waiver of upfront processing fees and documentation charges till 31 March 2025. Additionally, borrowers can avail an overdraft up to Rs 25 lakh or a term loan of up to Rs 1 crore for personal needs. This scheme also offers a 50% waiver on legal and valuation charges for home loan takeovers till 31 March 2025.

PNB Gen-Next Home Loan Scheme: Specifically designed for salaried professionals such as IT professionals, public sector employees, and government employees having age upto 40 years. This scheme with starting ROI at 8.15% per annum allows borrowers to avail loans up to 1.25 times of their eligibility. With repayment tenure of up to 30 years, this scheme provides financial flexibility to the borrowers.  A moratorium period of up to 60 months is also available. Full waivers on processing fees and documentation charges are available till 31 March 2025.

PNB Max Saver – Home Loan Scheme: Targeted at high-income groups, this scheme is offered in the form of an overdraft, allowing borrowers to park their excess funds in overdraft loan account to reduce interest liability. Interest rates start at 8.30% per annum, with full waivers on processing fees and documentation charges till 31 March 2025.

Car Loans: PNB has updated its car loan offerings to make vehicle financing more accessible and affordable, such as:

PNB Digi Car Loan: Designed for digital-savvy customers, this scheme offers ROI starting from 8.50% per annum, with an affordable EMI of Rs 1,240 per lakh. The maximum loan amount available is Rs 20 lakh, making it an ideal option for purchasing new cars. Customers can apply conveniently through the online platform by logging in to https://digivl.pnbindia.in/#/vehicle-home

PNB Car Loan: With an ROI starting from 8.50% per annum, this scheme provides financing for both new and used cars, with EMIs as low as Rs 1,240 per lakh. Customers can avail loans up to Rs 100 lakh, with 100% financing of the ex-showroom price, ensuring affordability and ease of purchase.

PNB Green Car (e-Vehicle) Loan: To promote sustainable mobility, PNB offers a 0.05% concession in ROI starting from 8.50% per annum and starting EMI of Rs. 1,240 per lakh. Customers can benefit from a longer repayment tenure of up to 120 months and enjoy 100% financing of the ex-showroom price.

Education Loans: PNB continues to support students in their pursuit of higher education with tailored loan products like:

PNB Digi Education Loan: A completely digital and hassle-free loan process with ROI starting from 7.85%. This scheme provides collateral-free financial support to students who get admission to selected premier institutes in India. Parents or students can apply conveniently through the online platform by logging in to https://digiel.pnbindia.in/#/education-home.

PM Vidyalaxmi: This scheme provides education loan with starting ROI of 7.85%, with no processing fees and documentation charges to students enrolled in 860 QHEIs (Quality Higher Education Institutes) in India.

PNB Pratibha: This scheme is exclusively for meritorious students who get admission in 80+ premier institutes in India. It covers full-time post-graduate degree and diploma courses, with starting ROI from 7.85%. The scheme comes with zero processing fees and documentation charges, along with a nil margin for loan disbursal.

PNB Saraswati: Designed for students pursuing higher education in non-premier institutes in India. This scheme offers education loan up to Rs 4 lakhs with nil margin and above Rs. 4 lakhs with margin of 5%. Starting ROI is 9.00%, with no processing fees and documentation charges.

PNB Udaan: This scheme provides financial support to students planning to study abroad. This scheme offers education loan up to Rs 4 lakhs with nil margin and above Rs. 4 lakhs with margin of 15%. Starting ROI is 9.00%, with no processing fees and documentation charges.

Personal Loans: To meet immediate financial needs, PNB has enhanced its personal loan offerings:

Pre-Approved Personal Loan: Customers can avail Personal loan up to Rs 20 lakh through a seamless digital process, eliminating the need for branch visits or paperwork. ROI starts from 11.25%. Customers can log in to https://instaloans.pnbindia.in for further information.

PNB Swaagat: A convenient online personal loan option for new-to-bank customers, this scheme offers loans up to Rs 10 lakh with quick approval through an OTP-based process. ROI starts from 11.25%, flexible repayment tenure extends up to 72 months, and no collateral or personal guarantee is required, ensuring easy access to funds. Customers can apply conveniently through the online platform by logging in to https://instaloans.pnbindia.in/home#!

Online Overdraft (e-OD) Against Fixed Deposit: PNB also offers an attractive overdraft facility against fixed deposits. Customers can obtain an overdraft of up to Rs 50 lakh with a simple, three-click digital application process. The interest rate is set at 1% over the applicable deposit rate. This facility allows instant access to funds without incurring pre-mature withdrawal penalties. Customers can avail this offer digitally from anywhere through internet banking and PNB One App.

PNB offers effortless loan approval with a fully digital, paperless process, allowing customers to apply from anywhere with ease. With zero prepayment charges, no processing fees, and no documentation charges, the Bank ensures a seamless and cost-effective borrowing experience. Customers can visit their nearest PNB branch or log in to www.pnbindia.in for further details on the revised rates and applicable terms.

Kansai Nerolac Empowers Local Vendors At Maha Kumbh Mela With A Vibrant Identity

Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited (KNPL), one of India's leading paint companies, has an ongoing initiative at the Maha Kumbh Mela, blending tradition with innovation to empower local vendors. Understanding the challenges faced by small business owners and street vendors, Kansai Nerolac is giving out storefronts inspired by the vibrant hues of Nerolac colours. These storefronts not only help the vendors stand out amidst the bustling crowds and transform their space but also protects them and their merchandise.

As the world’s largest religious gathering, Maha Kumbh attracts millions of visitors and pilgrims. Given its grandeur, small vendors find it difficult to make their presence known. Kansai Nerolac’s initiative provides vendors with shade card-inspired storefronts, that allow them to personalise their shops with colours that best reflect their services. Adaptable to various business needs, they transform into overhead canopies and are being used for multiple small businesses. These storefronts offer shelving, menu boards, signage, and product displays, ensuring each vendor enjoys a distinct and unmistakable presence. Each shopfront also features the selected Nerolac shade name and number, while seamlessly integrating business utility with aesthetic enhancement.

Made with DIY corrugated sheets and transparent acrylic boards, the structures are easy to set up and tailored as per individual vendor needs, ensuring both convenience and durability. For example, display racks for tea vendors or fold-out menu cards for food stalls.

Commenting on the initiative, a company spokesperson said, commenting on the initiative, a company spokesperson said, “At Kansai Nerolac, we believe that colours are more than just aesthetics. They tell stories, create identity, and enhance experiences. By bringing this concept to Maha Kumbh, we aim to uplift vendors who form the heart of this cultural gathering, while demonstrating the impact of colour in real-world applications”.

“This innovative initiative reflects our commitment to providing community-driven solutions. By empowering vendors with customised storefronts, we want to contribute to the livelihoods of small business owners and vendors, ensuring they have a better space to sell their wares and thrive in a competitive environment”, he added.

Watch how Kansai Nerolac is transforming vendor spaces at Maha Kumbh here: Dukan It Yourself | Kansai Nerolac at Mahakumbh.

With this initiative, Kansai Nerolac once again sets a benchmark by making a meaningful impact, offering vendors a vibrant and functional option.

Third Batch Of FICCI Leadership Development Program Commences At Manipal Academy of Higher Education

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), in collaboration with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), initiated the third batch of the Leadership Development Program (LDP) today. This exclusive three-day residential program is hosted at the MAHE campus in Manipal and features a series of nine meticulously designed training modules aimed at enhancing the leadership capabilities of academic leaders.

The FICCI LDP has brought together a diverse group of academic leaders including Directors, Deans, Registrars, Senior Professors, etc from various Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The program is developed to orient professionals with advanced knowledge and leadership skills essential for managing the complexities of modern academia and shaping them become 'future-ready'.

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Co-Chair, FICCI Higher Education Committee and Vice Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, in his keynote Address highlighted the fundamentals of leadership, discussing its various layers and significance in personal, organizational, and societal contexts. Emphasizing the need for a structured approach in identifying and nurturing potential academic leaders, Lt. Gen. Venkatesh also addressed the challenges faced by stakeholders within the education ecosystem. These include stakeholder consciousness, managing expectations, budgeting and financing, industry partnerships, and regulatory compliances. He further highlighted the essential attributes expected of an academic leader in today’s rapidly evolving and transformative times. He emphasized the growing significance of developing a comprehensive  sense in research, operational and strategic management, team-building skills, and proficiency in accreditation and ranking. He further underscored the critical importance of succession planning in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to ensure robust governance, innovation, and effective talent risk management, thereby ensuring readiness for future leadership transitions.

Prof. (Dr.) Rajan Saxena, Advisor, FICCI Higher Education Committee and Former Vice Chancellor, NMIMS, articulated the urgent need for developing readiness to embrace change. He stressed the importance of anticipating and preparing for future challenges to avert potential disasters, overcome stagnancy, and address systemic issues, which could otherwise lead to low enrollment and demoralization within the academic community. Prof. Saxena observed that the success of students and the relevance of HEIs hinge on recognizing the shifting dynamics of the job market. He pointed out the cyclical challenges that may at times persist until institutions adapt to these changes. He advocated for a continuous focus on adding value to students, industry, and society at large. He highlighted that the transformation in education begins with leadership at the top and permeates throughout the faculty and administrative levels.

Dr. Rajesh Pankaj, Director & Head – Education & Skills, FICCI, in his welcome remarks highlighted the significant complementary efforts and benchmark standards set by private higher education institutions in India. These institutions, he noted, play a crucial role in equipping a global workforce with competent and relevant skills. Dr. Pankaj emphasized that the vision of the FICCI LDP is centered around capacity building within HEIs. He elaborated on how FICCI as an association is uniquely positioned to, integrate fresh insights from both industry and academia to forge structured leadership that meets critical benchmarks and significantly impacts HEIs.

The modules cover critical aspects of academic leadership including change management, talent management, research and innovation, technology integration, fostering a learning culture, financial sustainability, internationalization, and industry partnerships. These sessions are designed not only to enrich and upgrade the participants' skill sets but also to immerse them in an environment that promotes substantial growth and networking opportunities. Participants will engage in real-time case studies, interactive sessions, and collaborative learning experiences that mirror the complexities and nuances of modern higher education.

This program masterfully blends theoretical foundations with practical insights to stimulate thoughtful discussion and inspire decisive action. Facilitated by esteemed leaders who are pioneers of change in their respective fields, its primary goal is to reimagine the role of academia in a transformative world. By focusing on critical areas such as technology integration, research innovation, and sustainable practices, the program is meticulously designed to equip leaders with the necessary tools to effectively shape the future of education.

The FICCI Leadership Development Program is a significant step toward empowering academic leaders to effectively lead and implement progressive policies, ensuring their institutions remain at the forefront of educational innovation and excellence.

Established in 1927, FICCI is India's oldest and largest apex business organization, playing a pivotal role in propelling India's economic growth and industrialization. As a non-government, not-for-profit organization, FICCI serves as the voice of India’s business and industry, facilitating dialogue, influencing policy, and building bridges across sectors.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, is renowned for its academic excellence and comprehensive educational offerings. By hosting the LDP, MAHE underscores its commitment to fostering educational leadership that can drive significant impacts in the realms of higher education and beyond.

Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai Presents Limited Time: Member Exclusive Offer

* Earn Generous Bonus Points and Complimentary Perks – Book Your Stay by April 18, 2025

Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai proudly announces a limited-time, exclusive offer designed to elevate the guest experience to new heights. From now until April 18, 2025, Marriott Bonvoy members are invited to enjoy a host of exceptional benefits, including a generous 2,000 bonus points per stay, along with an array of luxury services that promise to make each visit unforgettable.

In addition to the rewarding points, members will receive a selection of premium amenities to enhance their stay. These exclusive benefits include significant savings on dining, spa treatments, transportation, and more —

Inclusions of the Member Exclusive Offer:

Earn 2,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points per stay

Complimentary daily buffet breakfast at Hill View Café

Complimentary Hi-Tea daily from 17:00 to 19:00 hrs at Hill View Café

15% discount on all food and beverages

15% discount on transportation services

15% discount on laundry services

15% discount on spa treatments at Tattva

10% discount on airport transfers to and from Mumbai International Airport

Book Now: Member Exclusive Offer: Earn Bonus Points & More in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra | Marriott Executive Apartments

About Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai

Nestled in the heart of Navi Mumbai, Marriott Executive Apartments offers an elevated living experience that seamlessly combines the comforts of home with the luxury and convenience of Marriott’s world-class services. Perfect for both short-term and extended stays, the property is tailored for discerning guests seeking an elegant setting for work or relaxation. With spacious accommodations, premium amenities, exceptional service, and a variety of dining experiences, including an all-day café, specialty restaurant, seasonal terrace grill, and coffee lounge, Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai stands as the ideal choice for those who seek excellence in every aspect of their stay.