Toyota Kirloskar Motor Exchanges MoU With Government Of Mizoram To Drive Holistic Community Development

In a significant step towards fostering holistic growth and sustainable development in the Northeast, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Mizoram. Held in Aizawl, the MoU exchange ceremony marks an important milestone in TKM’s efforts to contribute meaningfully to the region’s progress through focused, community-centric CSR initiatives. Under this collaboration, TKM has implemented CSR interventions in three key areas identified by the local administration and enforcement agencies as below:

Road safety awareness to commercial taxi drivers

Upgrading traffic monitoring infrastructure and

Enhancing disaster response capabilities

Each activity is designed to address on-ground challenges and deliver lasting impact aligned with the state’s needs.

The exchange ceremony, held in Aizawl, was graced by Mr. Lalduhoma, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, officials from the Government of Mizoram including Mr.  Lalhriatpuia, Deputy Commissioner, Aizawl, Mr.  Paul, Deputy Commissioner Serchhip, Mr.  Stephen, Senior Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Mr.  C.C Lalchhuangkima, Smart City CEO along with leadership from Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Executive Vice President & Country Head, other senior executives and Mr.  Zorammawia Tochhawng, Dealer Principal, Zote Toyota, reaffirming the spirit of collaboration and shared vision for long-term community transformation.

Under the MoU, TKM has formally handed over two major assets:

ANPR/CCTV Equipment: In alignment with Aizawl’s designation as a Smart City, TKM has also facilitated the procurement and supply of 34 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and 20 Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) units. This initiative aims to strengthen traffic monitoring, enhance road safety & regulatory enforcement across the city with beneficiaries up to 4,00,000 community members

Back-hoe Equipment: In response to the state’s vulnerability to natural calamities such as landslides—highlighted by the Cyclone Remal in May 2024—TKM has also provided two backhoe machines to the district administration. This support aims to help the local government strengthen its disaster response capacity in regions prone to geological instability and unplanned urban development and benefits 4,00,000 community members

The MoU exchange also marks the culmination of a state-wide road safety and health awareness campaign to commercial taxi drivers held earlier this year. Conducted in collaboration with the Mizoram Traffic SP Office and timed to coincide with National Road Safety Month (January 18 – February 17, 2025), the campaign benefitted over 800 commercial vehicle drivers across the state. The initiative involved safety training sessions to instil best driving practices and reduce accident risks, coupled with free health screenings to ensure the physical well-being of drivers.

Present at the occasion, Mr. Lalduhoma, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, said, “Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s support comes at a crucial time as Mizoram addresses both infrastructural gaps and natural vulnerabilities. With rising instances of landslides and road accidents, there’s a pressing need for stronger preparedness and public safety systems. What stands out in this collaboration is its responsiveness to local realities—be it providing vital equipment for disaster response or enhancing traffic surveillance in Aizawl. Toyota’s earlier road safety and health initiative for our drivers was also well received. These are meaningful contributions with tangible outcomes, and we deeply value Toyota’s commitment to Mizoram’s development.”

Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President - Corporate Affairs and Governance - Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, the Northeast is not just a strategic region—it is a priority geography, rich in potential, resilience, and cultural depth. Our CSR initiatives across the region have consistently focused on creating meaningful impact through sustainable mobility, skilling, and road safety. This MoU with the Government of Mizoram is a continuation of that commitment. It reflects our shared goal of delivering community-centric solutions that are locally relevant and built for long-term impact. We are honoured to collaborate with the state in driving positive change and look forward to strengthening this collaboration in the years to come.”

Through these interventions, TKM continues to stay rooted in its philosophy of ‘Growing Together with the Community’—ensuring that every CSR initiative is tailored to the unique needs of each region. With a strong legacy of driving social change across India, TKM’s expanding presence in the Northeast reflects its belief in creating real, lasting impact through collaborations that are local in approach and national in spirit.

This Summer, Bengaluru Prefers Local - Goa, Ooty, & Offbeat Gems Shine

Cleartrip, a Flipkart company, announced a significant uptick in summer travel during its Nation on Vacation (NoVac) campaign, with Bengaluru emerging as the heartbeat of domestic travel.

Key Highlights from Bengaluru:

12% of total domestic bookings came from Bengaluru – the highest share in India.

Goa topped the list of preferred domestic destinations, with Ooty, Lonavala, and Manali close behind.

Offbeat international gems like Georgia and Azerbaijan saw surprising traction among Bengaluru travellers.

Speaking on the campaign’s success, Tavleen Bhatia, Chief Marketing Officer, Cleartrip, said, “Since its inception, Nation on Vacation (NoVac) has grown into one of the country’s biggest and most eagerly awaited summer travel sales - so much so that it feels like summer truly begins with NoVac’s arrival. We’re thrilled by the resounding response this year and are glad we could deliver great value, helping more Indians take that long-awaited summer break. At Cleartrip, our mission has always been to make travel planning and booking easy, smart, and joyful.”

Bengaluru’s travel choices reflected a mix of traditional favourites and adventurous new explorations, capturing the spirit of the season perfectly.

PhonePe’s PINCODE App Launches 24x7 Medicine Delivery In Bangalore, Mumbai And Pune With 10-Minute Medicine Delivery

* Customers Without Prescriptions can avail Doctor consultations for seamless medicine access, for FREE

The PINCODE app, a hyperlocal e-commerce application powered by PhonePe, has launched its 24-hour online medicine delivery service in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune, ensuring round-the-clock availability of medicines (OTC and prescription). Customers can now place orders for medicines at any time and receive delivery within 10 minutes from their nearest medical shop.

The PINCODE app is revolutionizing the online pharmacy sector through exclusive partnerships with local medical shops, rather than utilizing dark stores. This approach not only facilitates expedited deliveries but also provides support to neighborhood medical shops, enabling their business growth in an increasingly digital marketplace.

For customers without prescriptions, the PINCODE app enables them to first add medicines to their cart and place the order by selecting the 'no prescription' option. Once the order is placed, a qualified doctor contacts the customer within minutes for a free teleconsultation. Based on the assessment, a digital prescription is issued in line with telemedicine guidelines—ensuring a compliant and seamless medication procurement experience.

Vivek Lohcheb, CEO of PINCODE, remarked on the expansion- "At PINCODE, our mission is to enhance healthcare accessibility and convenience while simultaneously empowering local medical shops. Our 10-minute delivery service ensures customers receive medicines without unnecessary delays. Through our continuous availability and free doctor on call, we are improving access to fundamental healthcare services while reinforcing the position of neighborhood medical shops in the digital economy. This approach stimulates local economic growth and ensures trusted medical shops remain integral to their communities."

In contrast to conventional e-pharmacies, the PINCODE app implements a hyperlocal strategy wherein medications are sourced directly from nearby medical shops. This methodology ensures more rapid deliveries while maintaining local businesses at the forefront of digital access. The PINCODE app remains the sole provider offering continuous service availability alongside complimentary medical consultations and hyperlocal pharmacy partnerships.

This service addresses practical healthcare needs for those with time constraints and mobility issues. It helps meet urgent medication requirements—be it over-the-counter, emergency, or chronic care medicines—while supporting local pharmacy businesses. Prices on the Pincode app are competitive, as we pass on the discount benefits offered by local pharmacies directly to customers, with no delivery charges.

About the PINCODE App

The PINCODE app, a 10-minute hyperlocal delivery app by PhonePe, offers a revolutionary new approach to quick commerce. The PINCODE app places speed, reliability and selection for consumers at the forefront with local sellers as the key element of digital commerce growth story. With the PINCODE app, every Indian shopkeeper, regardless of their location, is digitally empowered to tap into the vast potential of quick commerce, creating unprecedented opportunities for growth, while driving innovation at scale.

IGI D Show 2025 Reaffirms Its Legacy As India’s Premier Diamond Show, Brings Together The Finest In The Diamond Industry

* Marking IGI’s 50th anniversary, the 21st edition of the largest exclusive diamond show featured 60+ diamond jewelry manufacturers and retailers across the country, and over 100,000 exclusive diamond jewelry designs

The grandeur of the 21st edition of the three-day IGI D Show 2025, hosted by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), unfolded at the iconic Jio World Centre - reaffirming its legacy as India’s premier exclusive diamond show. As always, the IGI D Show has catalyzed business growth and fostered enduring relationships across the industry.

This exclusive diamond exhibition is the cornerstone event for India's gem and jewelry industry, fostering meaningful relationships between premier diamond manufacturers and luxury/high-end retail brands. This first edition in Mumbai has been a grand and successful showcase, cementing purposeful connections beyond a display of brilliance. The event served as a powerful platform for forging strategic partnerships, exchanging industry insights, and exploring emerging opportunities that continue to drive innovation and evolution in the diamond trade.

Held in celebration of IGI’s 50th anniversary, the event was inaugurated by Mr. Tehmasp Printer, MD & CEO, IGI along with eminent dignitaries from the industry like Ashraf Motiwala, Managing Director, A. S. Motiwala; Arnav Mehta, Managing Director of Blue Star Diamonds; Rajeev Popley, Director Popley Group of Jewellers; Dr.Chetan Kumar Mehta, Chairman & Managing Director. Laxmi Diamonds; Shailesh Rathod, K P Sanghvi; Mehul Oswal, Mahendra Jewellers; Mahaveer Bohra; Abhushan; Amit Bandi, D P Jewelline Ltd and Ankur Anand, Harshaimal Shyamlal Jewellers. The exclusive show brought together 60+ diamond jewelry manufacturers and top retailers from across the country, featuring more than 100,000 exceptional diamond jewelry designs each reflecting a blend of craftsmanship, innovation and authenticity.

Each exhibitor presented their signature style while aligning with IGI’s global benchmarks for quality and authenticity. The collections, ranging from intricately designed bridal jewelry to contemporary couture lines, catered to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences. They captivated not only the style-conscious younger audience but also appealed to connoisseurs of timeless craftsmanship, luxury enthusiasts, and aspirational buyers across all age groups. This diversity in design echoed the evolving landscape of consumer desires, where heritage meets modernity and exclusivity embraces accessibility.

This year’s theme, The Artisans behind the ALLURE, honored not just the sparkle of diamonds but the brilliance of mastery, heritage, and intricate craftsmanship that breathe life into every piece. Commemorating 50 years of IGI’s legacy, the show reflected the institute’s remarkable journey as a trusted name in gemological excellence. The IGI D Show has consistently reached new heights, setting a benchmark for meaningful networking and collaboration among like-minded individuals committed to advancing the global gem and jewelry industry.

Grand Opening Of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi By His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

* The innovative multi-sensory art experience redefines the boundaries of immersive art

* Purpose-built 17,000 sqm venue features transformative artworks unique to Abu Dhabi

* Opening music composed and performed by renowned Italian pianist Ludovico Einaudi

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has officially inaugurated teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a transformative multi-sensory art experience and new cultural landmark in the heart of Saadiyat Cultural District.

On 17 April, the grand opening celebration welcomed distinguished guests and cultural leaders, featuring a specially composed performance by renowned Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi. Set against the architectural marvel of the venue, the score was paired with a dramatic display of 6,000 synchronised drones and pyrotechnics, curated to celebrate the new milestone of Saadiyat Cultural District.

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman at Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), commented: “teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a groundbreaking cultural landmark that redefines immersive art experiences on a global scale. It embodies a bold vision that pushes the boundaries of creativity, technology, and human perception, offering visitors an experience unlike any other. Together with our partner, teamLab, we take great pride in bringing this pioneering concept to life, reinforcing our commitment to shaping world-class experiences that inspire, engage, and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s cultural legacy. Saadiyat Cultural District is a cultural landmark of global significance, bringing together the world’s greatest minds and institutions to foster dialogue, inspire creativity, and shape a more connected future.”

The launch event articulated the connection between art, technology and imagination. The Music of Ludovico Einaudi intersected with the artistic light installations that emerged from teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi and rose to the sky. Through a coordinated fleet of 6,000 drones and dramatic pyrotechnics that illuminated the skies over Saadiyat Cultural District and marked the official opening moment.

Following the opening ceremony, guests were immersed in the exceptional teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, meandering between its inspiring artistic installations, interacting with the dynamic artworks, and experiencing the connection between art, technology and natural phenomena.

Toshiyuki Inoko, Founder of teamLab, said: “The artworks in teamLab Phenomena do not exist independently but are created by the environment which produces the various phenomena that creates the artworks. Objects such as stones and man-made creations maintain a stable structure independently. A stone, for instance, will remain unchanged even if placed in a sealed box, isolated from the outside world. In contrast, a vortex in the ocean will vanish in an instant if removed from its environment. Unlike a stone, a vortex does not sustain itself; it evolves with the surrounding currents, formed by water flowing continuously from the outside to the inside and from the inside to the outside of the vortex, changing along with the flow. Moreover, the boundaries of its existence are ambiguous, and there is no material distinction between the vortex and its surroundings. The unique environment produces the phenomena, and the environment maintains the existence of the structure. Let us call that existence Environmental Phenomena. The artwork is inseparable from the environment and changes along with the environment. This concept transcends the various conventional notions of existence by physical forms. Even if people immerse themselves physically into the artwork, the artwork will remain intact, capable of naturally restoring itself even if disrupted. However, when the environment is not sustained, the artwork will disappear. The boundaries of the artwork are ambiguous and continuous with the environment. Perhaps, people's consciousness will expand from the artwork itself to the environment beyond.”

Spanning 17,000 square metres, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi has been developed by the internationally acclaimed art collective teamLab, in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). The multi-sensory art experience reflects the emirate’s unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and cultural innovation on a global scale, and it presents massive transformative artworks that each blend art, science and technology in groundbreaking ways.

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is designed to explore and transcend the limits of guests’ imagination. Each artwork within the unique, purpose-built venue will evolve over time through the interplay of light, sound and movement. Unlike traditional artworks, the artworks at teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi are fluid, they exist in a dynamic relationship with their environment, responding to guests’ actions and natural changes in the environment, creating a living, breathing art experience unlike any other.

Comprising two distinct Wet and Dry areas, guests will be immersed in a series of mesmerising visuals, vibrant landscapes and interactive installations that dissolve the boundaries between art and audience. Every moment offers a new philosophical experience, ensuring that each visitor experience is unique.

In the Dry artwork area, visitors will encounter a variety of artworks that encourage interaction, where artworks respond to their movements and actions, creating a unique connection between guests and the artwork. As they move into the Wet artwork area, guests will follow a dedicated walkway leading them into an exciting realm filled with fluid, hands-on experiences that further deepen their connection with the art.

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a key addition to Saadiyat Cultural District, which upon completion will be the largest concentration of world-leading cultural and educational institutions. This remarkable district is home to an unparalleled lineup of museums and cultural landmarks, including Louvre Abu Dhabi; the upcoming Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE; Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, featuring a global collection of modern and contemporary art that reflects the diversity of cultures and trends from around the world; and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, telling the story of life on earth and the origins of our universe.

The addition of teamLab Phenomena reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global cultural epicentre, offering visitors a unique and transformative experience while showcasing its commitment to creativity, innovation and cultural collaboration on a global scale.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.teamlababudhabi.com

Taj West End, Bengaluru And Vivanta Bengaluru Whitefield Transition To 100% Renewable Energy

In a significant step towards environmental sustainability, Taj West End, Bengaluru and Vivanta Bengaluru Whitefield have transitioned to 100% renewable energy, sourced from solar and wind power. This milestone marks a major advancement in the hotels’ ongoing commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting responsible tourism.

Mr. Satyajeet Krishnan, Senior Vice President – Operations, said, “This transition marks a pivotal moment in our sustainability journey and is aligned with our ESG+ framework, Paathya. It reinforces our long-term goal of sourcing 50% of our energy from renewable sources by 2030, while strengthening our commitment to responsible business practices across operations.”

Taj West End, Bengaluru, a 135-year-old heritage landmark set amidst 20 acres of greenery, has introduced an in-house water bottling plant, significantly reducing single-use plastic and advancing circular practices. The hotel has earned the EarthCheck Platinum Master Certification, recognizing over 15 years of consistent environmental performance. Its in-house laundry facility has also retained Platinum status for 14 consecutive years.

The contemporary 199-key Vivanta Bengaluru Whitefield has been awarded the EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years. With a strong focus on energy efficiency, water conservation, and responsible waste management, the hotel continues to set benchmarks in sustainable urban hospitality.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj –the iconic brand for the most discerning travellers and ranked as World's Strongest Hotel Brand 2024 and India’s Strongest Brand 2024 as per Brand Finance; Claridges Collection, a curated set of  boutique luxury hotels merging elegance with historical charm; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Tree of Life, private escapes in tranquil settings; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; Gateway, full-service hotels designed to be your gateway to exceptional destinations and Ginger, which is revolutionising the lean luxe segment.

Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel - The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 380?hotels including 137 under development globally across 4 continents, 14 countries and in over 150+ locations. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization. It is listed on the BSE and NSE. 

Bengaluru Among Top Cities For Digital Payment Transactions In H2 2024: Worldline India

Worldline (Euronext: WLN), a global leader in payment services, today released its latest analysis of digital transactions processed by them in the second half of calendar year 2024 (July–December 2024), revealing key trends in India’s rapidly evolving payments ecosystem.

According to the analysis, Bengaluru has emerged as a frontrunner, ranking among the top five cities in terms of both digital payment volume and value. The city accounted for 20% of total transaction volume, up from 15% in H2 2023, and 18% of total transaction value, marking a significant year-on-year increase from 14%.

Bengaluru is followed by New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad—together making up the top five Indian cities with the highest digital payment activity.

Ramesh Narasimhan, Chief Executive Officer - Worldline India, said, “Bengaluru’s rise to the top in both transaction volume and value reflects the city’s dynamic digital ecosystem and strong merchant adoption of modern payment solutions. The broader trend across cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad signals a nationwide momentum toward seamless, contactless, and mobile-first transactions. At Worldline, we remain committed to fostering this transformation through secure, innovative, and inclusive payment solutions that empower businesses and consumers alike."

Key Consumer Trends

In-store purchases remained strong, with the top-performing merchant categories including:

·         Grocery stores

·         Restaurants

·         Service stations

·         Clothing stores

·         Government services

·         Pharmacies and hospitals

These categories accounted for approximately 68% of total in-store transaction volume and 53% of total value.

Online transactions were driven by:

·         E-commerce

·         Gaming

·         Utility payments

·         Government services

·         Financial services

These segments contributed to 81% of total online transaction volume and 74% of the value.