Consumer Electronics Major AKAI Unveils New Series OF Direct Cool Refrigerators

* The launch aimed at filling the existing gap in the market and establishing a presence in the DC segment

AKAI, a leading Japanese consumer electronics brand, has announced the launch of its new series of Direct Cool Single Door Refrigerators, designed to meet the evolving needs of Indian households. The strategic move into the refrigeration segment reflects AKAI’s commitment to offering innovative, high-quality, energy-efficient and value-driven products to its customers.

The new range of single-door refrigerators is available in various capacities ranging from 48 litres to 230 litres, with 1-star to 5-star ratings. These refrigerators offer impressive cooling performance, anti-bacterial gaskets, toughened glass shelves, manual and push-button defrost options, and curved and glass door designs in vibrant colours such as Silver, Wine and Blue. With ample storage space inside, Akai’s Direct Cool range of refrigerators is truly money for value. The price range starts from Rs 13,990.

AKAI’s new series of refrigerators is designed for modern lifestyles, with additional features such as a base storage basket, LED lighting with surge protection. It also includes bottle separators, soft cresper basket, egg tray for both premium and luxury series and optional beauty/medicine boxes in the luxury series. 

Launching these refrigerators, Anurag Sharma, Managing Director & CEO, AKAI India, said, “At AKAI, we are committed to innovating and bringing global technology to Indian homes at accessible prices. With the launch of Akai’s DC Refrigerator series, our brand aims to address the increasing needs of the market by focusing on the real, everyday requirements of our customers, such as energy efficiency and functional design. This initiative not only enhances our presence in the Indian home appliances market but also drives significant growth in the coming years. The launch of this range of refrigerators reflects Akai’s deep understanding of the market and consumer demands, capturing the sentiments and lifestyle of our customers.” 

These refrigerators are equipped with fixed-speed compressors and wide voltage compatibility (160V-260V), ensuring optimal cooling even during voltage fluctuations. Customers will also enjoy a one-year comprehensive warranty and up to 10 years warranty on compressors on selective models, emphasising AKAI’s focus on durability and customer satisfaction.

The new Direct Cool refrigerator series will be available at leading retail stores, online platforms and on their D2C website https://akaiindia.in/

About AKAI:

AKAI, a renowned Japanese consumer electronics brand founded in Tokyo in 1929, has been a pioneer in home electronics for over 90 years. Rooted in the Japanese philosophy of MOTTAINAI, which emphasizes respecting efficiency, AKAI designs products that prioritize simplicity, functionality, and durability to enhance everyday living. Initially gaining prominence in the audio industry, the brand has since expanded its portfolio globally including Televisions, Interactive Flat Panel Displays, Audio Systems, Washing Machines, and Air Conditioners. By integrating smart and energy-efficient technologies, AKAI offers honest pricing without compromising on innovation, reliability, or exceptional quality. Committed to delivering honest home essentials with high performance and long-lasting durability, AKAI has built a legacy of trust.

QNET India Launches #BuzzForEarth Campaign On World Bee Day

In celebration of World Bee Day, QNET India has launched its latest digital first campaign - #BuzzForEarth, aimed at raising awareness around bee conservation, pollination, and ethical honey farming practices. The campaign is centered around Nutriplus Monofloral Honey, one of QNET’s premium wellness offerings, known for its purity and nutritional richness.

Bees are among nature’s most vital pollinators, playing a critical role in sustaining biodiversity and food security. Through this campaign, QNET encourages consumers to understand the importance of protecting pollinators and choosing honey sourced through ethical, sustainable means.

The campaign spans digital platforms, social media channels such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube inviting individuals to discover the environmental value behind every spoonful of honey.

Monofloral Honey_Bee day

In the campaign video, the importance of bee-box-based ethical honey cultivation is showcased — a practice that supports a sustainable ecosystem by empowering rural beekeepers and women. This initiative provides year-round, gainful employment to thousands of individuals within a specific community in Karnataka, fostering economic growth and environmental stewardship. Aligning with QNET’s broader vision of sustainability and wellness, the #BuzzForEarth campaign promotes mindful choices that benefit both personal health and the planet.

Nutriplus Monofloral Honey is responsibly harvested from a single floral source, ensuring consistency in taste, colour, and quality. Its rich natural enzymes and antioxidants make it a nutritious addition to everyday diets, while its ethical sourcing underscores QNET’s commitment to conscious consumption.

Speaking about the campaign, Nischal C, Head - Corporate Communications, QNET India Region, said: “We believe wellness goes hand in hand with sustainability. With #BuzzForEarth, we’re spotlighting how something as simple as honey can connect us to nature, nutrition, and responsible living. Nutriplus Monofloral Honey is a reflection of how conscious sourcing can create a positive ripple for people and the planet.”

Consumers can join the movement and explore more by following QNET India’s official social media pages @qnetindiaofficial and engaging using the hashtag #BuzzForEarth.

Find the #BuzzForEarth campaign live on QNET India’s official social media handles:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJ1TGG-MGMu/?igsh=MWo0eXc3NXI0eG5qMA%3D%3D

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SKKeiRrFjM

Twitter: https://x.com/qnet_india/status/1924421476830019841?s=46&t=g9LBcMBhh5P8_Nyq1gpw_Q

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DenNqq2QD/?mibextid=wwXIfr

About QNET:

QNET is one of Asia's leading e-commerce enabled direct selling companies offering a wide range of health, wellness, and lifestyle products. QNET's business model pivoting upon technology and e-commerce has helped empower millions of entrepreneurs in more than 100 countries worldwide. QNET is headquartered in Hong Kong and has a presence in more than 25 countries around the world through subsidiaries, branch offices, agency partnerships, and franchisees.

QNET is also active in sports sponsorships around the world. Some of the more prominent partnerships include being the Direct Selling Partner of Manchester City Football Club and the African Club League Championships of CAF.

QNET is a member of the Direct Selling Association in several countries, as well as the Hong Kong Health Food Association and the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, among others. In India, QNET operates through its sub-franchisee Vihaan Direct Selling (India) Pvt Ltd and is a member of the Health Foods and Dietary Supplements Association (HADSA) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

From IIT to LOLs – Catch Vipul Goyal’s Hilarious Stand-Up at Phoenix Mall of Asia, Bengaluru

Vipul Goyal, one of India’s top stand-up comedians, is all set to come live at the Phoenix Mall of Asia, Bengaluru on Saturday, 24th May 2025 at the Fan Park. Known for his clean and relatable humour, Vipul’s comedy covers everyday topics like Indian families, social media, and daily life quirks, delivered with sharp wit and charm.

An IIT Bombay graduate, Vipul has gained popularity through his stand-up performances across colleges and corporate events, as well as his work with ‘The Viral Fever.’ He is the only Indian comedian with a dedicated show of his own, Humorously Yours, a semi-autobiographical web-series that has won millions of views and follows his journey in comedy.

Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a night full of laughter and fun. Grab your tickets now on BookmyShow.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, 24th May 2025

Time: 7:30 PM Onwards

Venue: Fan Park, 2nd Floor, Phoenix Mall of Asia – Bengaluru

Entry: Tickets available on BookMyShow

Students In Delhi NCR And Haryana Sign Up For Samsung’s Nationwide Innovation Initiative ‘Solve For Tomorrow 2025’

* The 2025 edition provides an incubation programme for the Top 4 winning teams that will receive a grant of INR 1 crore

* Additionally, the Top 20 teams will be awarded INR 20 lakh, while the Top 40 teams will receive INR 8 lakh

* With roadshows already underway in cities like New Delhi, Gurugram, and Sonipat, the initiative has successfully engaged thousands of students

* Application window open until June 30, 2025, for school and college students aged 14-22 across India

India’s largest consumer electronics brand Samsung’s flagship CSR initiative, ‘Solve for Tomorrow,’ is emerging as a powerful catalyst, transforming young students into tomorrow’s tech entrepreneurs and social changemakers. The initiative is witnessing a surge in registrations from Gen Z entrepreneurs in schools and colleges across Delhi NCR and Haryana.

Through interactive Design Thinking workshops and Open House sessions held in schools and colleges across India, Samsung is effectively connecting classroom education with practical problem-solving approaches. Students are moving beyond conceptualizing solutions to creating prototypes, presenting their ideas to experts, and equipping themselves for the challenges of entrepreneurship. 

With roadshows already underway in cities like New Delhi, Gurugram, and Sonipat, the initiative has successfully engaged thousands of students from educational institutions, with plans to expand to more states, including those in the North East.

Students are generating innovative, community-focused ideas that address pressing real-world issues in areas such as healthcare, education, sustainability, and social equity. For several participants, these sessions provide their initial structured experience with problem-solving methodologies, mentorship, and entrepreneurial mindset development. 

“These workshops are pushing students to think critically, collaborate, and take ownership of their ideas — qualities that will serve them for life,” said Dr. Ashish Dwivedi, faculty at O.P. Jindal Global University, which hosted a recent college Open House. 

From AI-driven sustainable housing applications to eco-conscious digital textbooks and telemedicine platforms for rural healthcare, students’ innovative concepts demonstrate a profound dedication to enhancing societal well-being.

“Our students are eager to connect with mentors and experts to bring their ideas to life,” said Poonam Verma, Principal, Shaheed Sukhdev College of Business Studies, New Delhi.

Surbhi, Teacher, ITL Public School, New Delhi said, “The workshop conducted by Samsung and FITT-IIT Delhi was truly insightful. Many students have already approached me for help with their application — it’s unlocked real motivation.”

This year, participants are encouraged to create solutions across four key themes: AI for a Safer, Smarter, and Inclusive Bharat; Future of Health, Hygiene, and Well-being in India; Social change through Sports and Tech for Education and Better Futures; and Environmental Sustainability via Technology. After the application phase, 100 teams — 25 per theme — will be selected for online mentoring by subject experts. These teams will then enter a video pitch round, from which the top 40 teams will be chosen.

With the growing participation of thousands of students and its rapid expansion into smaller cities, Solve for Tomorrow is evolving into a national platform that fosters grassroots innovation and youth-driven change. The application window is open until June 30, 2025, for school and college students across India.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For latest news on Samsung India, please visit Samsung India Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com/in. For Hindi, log on to Samsung Newsroom Bharat at https://news.samsung.com/bharat. You can also follow us on Twitter @SamsungNewsIN.

PNB Launches "Monthly MSME Outreach Programme": Empowering Small Businesses Nationwide

Punjab National Bank (PNB), the nation's leading public sector bank, introduces its comprehensive Monthly MSME Outreach Programme—a nationwide strategic initiative being organised on 20.05.2025 to reach out to MSME customers across India for offering tailored financial solutions.

PNB Monthly MSME Outreach Programme brings a wide range of specialised lending solutions under one platform, providing accessibility to essential financial products with attractive interest rates and streamlined documentation requirements.

MSMEs can benefit from a variety of exclusive offerings: -

PNB GST Express: Instant eligibility checks with in-principle sanctions for cash flow- based schemes.

PNB Trade Growth: Customised financial solutions to support traders, with simplified assessment based on GST return/Credit summation in Account with no requirement of financial papers and Stock Statement.

Digi MSME Loans: Instant offer letters available through dedicated Digital Zones at all outreach locations.

PNB Export Express: Financial support for MSMEs expanding their exports, with loan amounts ranging from ?10 lakhs to ?50 crores.

The programme offers on-the-spot consultations, instant eligibility checks and in-principal sanction to eligible customers. All MSME Customers and particularly Micro entrepreneurs can also avail PM Vishwakarma, PM SVANidhi, Mudra loan and other business loans (GST Express, GST Sahay, PABL) through our digital channels without visiting Bank.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ashok Chandra, MD & CEO, PNB, stated: "Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises play a crucial role in our country's economic development, contributing significantly to employment generation, industrial output, and exports. Our Monthly MSME Outreach Programme aims to bridge the gap between MSMEs and formal banking systems, making financial services more accessible at the grassroots level."

Customers can also explore these exclusive offerings by visiting their nearest PNB branch, accessing the PNB ONE App, or contacting the bank's dedicated helplines.

Apollo Hospitals Emerges As Global Research Powerhouse With 5,000+ Publications In The Last Decade

The research contribution of the Apollo Hospitals Group was highlighted in a recent publication in the esteemed National Board of Examination Journal of Medical Sciences (NBEJMS). The study, "Evaluating a Decade of Research Excellence: A Bibliometric Analysis of Apollo Hospitals Group (2015–2024)," (https://natboard.edu.in/ejournal/downloadarticle.php?y=OC9CZENsVml3ckx6YnFqd0xsS05Idz09) underscores Apollo's emergence as a leading force in global healthcare research, marked by significant academic output, impactful international collaborations, and a growing influence on medical practices worldwide.

The bibliometric analysis reveals an impressive surge in research publications from Apollo Hospitals, escalating from 255 in 2015 to 794 in 2024—a remarkable growth of over 200%. Cumulatively, Apollo's research output reached 5,005 publications over the decade, demonstrating a consistent and robust dedication to advancing medical knowledge. These publications boast an average of 11.9 citations each, signifying the high academic value and considerable impact of Apollo's research contributions within the medical community. Furthermore, the study highlights that 26.4% of Apollo's research involved international collaborations, illustrating the Group's extensive global research network. The field-weighted citation impact also saw a significant rise from 0.73 in 2015 to 1.88 in 2024, emphasizing the increasing quality and relevance of the research produced by Apollo's dedicated teams.

Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Founder Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “at Apollo Hospitals, we have always believed that research is the cornerstone of progress in healthcare. This recognition not only validates our efforts but also inspires us to further elevate our research endeavors to benefit patients in India and across the globe.

We are committed to promoting higher medical education and training. Through its DNB and FNB programs, conducted across 24 locations, Apollo currently trains over 1,100 postgraduate students across 57 specialties as the largest training institution for DNB trainees in India”.

According to Dr. Anupam Sibal, Group Medical Director, Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “the findings of this bibliometric analysis clearly demonstrate the increasing quality and global relevance of the research emanating from Apollo Hospitals. Our commitment to fostering a research-oriented environment is reflected in the significant increase in publications and the high citation impact. This recognition will further motivate our teams to continue pushing the boundaries of medical science and translating research into tangible improvements in patient care."

Dr. Raju Vaishya, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics, Apollo Hospitals, and a key contributor to research within the Group, added: "It is incredibly rewarding to see Apollo Hospitals recognized for its research excellence. This achievement underscores the power of collaborative research and the dedication of our clinical teams to contribute meaningfully to the global medical knowledge base”.

This publication highlights the importance of investing in structured and collaborative research to drive medical advancements and ultimately enhance patient outcomes.

About Apollo Hospitals:

Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd. (Apollo) revolutionized healthcare when Dr. Prathap Reddy opened the first hospital in Chennai in 1983. Today, Apollo is the world’s largest integrated healthcare platform with over 10,000 beds across 73 hospitals, over 6,000 pharmacies, and over 2500 clinics and diagnostic centers, as well as 500+ telemedicine centers. It is the world’s leading cardiac center with over 200,000 surgeries and the world’s largest private cancer care provider. Apollo continues to invest in research to bring the most cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and treatment protocols to ensure patients have the best available care in the world. Apollo’s 100,000 family members are dedicated to bringing you the best care and leaving the world better than we found it.

On Guru Dutt’s 100th Birth Anniversary, Ultra Media In Cannes Film Festival 2025 Unveils Restored Version Of His Timeless Classics

* These include:  Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam & others to attract global movie enthusiasts

As a special tribute to the legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt’s 100th birth anniversary this year, Ultra Media & Entertainment Group unveils the fully restored versions of Guru Dutt’s timeless classics for the Global audience at the Cannes

Restored gems of Guru Dutt like *Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam & others are present at the Cannes . This is a celebration of Indian creativity, its past, present & future & a step towards inspiring global audiences".

Guru Dutt was born on 9th July 1925. As part of his 100th Birth anniversary Celebrations,Ultra is paying a month-long tribute to him. across India in July 2025. His fully restored films will be re-released in theatres all over India.  Besides the re-released films, there will be curated exhibitions & engaging panel discussions on Guru Dutt’s timeless legacy by other prominent filmmakers. This initiative is not just a celebration of his unparalleled artistry, but a way to reconnect new generations with the rich emotional and cultural heritage he created

The future of storytelling lies in embracing both heritage and innovation. This is a celebration of Indian creativity, its past, present & future & a step towards inspiring global audiences. Through a meticulous frame-by-frame 4K/2K manual restoration process, using industry-leading software’s like Diamant, PF Clean, Revival etc. Ultra has revitalized these old classics for future generations. This initiative is a part of the Company’s broader commitment to preserve India's cinematic heritage and share it with the world.

The Company also has Colourised Indian classics like Chori Chori, Paigham(Dilip Kumar), Insaniyat (Only film starring Dev Anand and Dilip Kumar together) using their own proprietary technologies. Film restoration and preservation are not just about technology; they are about respect for storytellers, audiences & cultural legacy. By combining state-of-the-art tools with deep passion, they are making India’s rich creative history accessible to every corner of the world.

Please visit us at our Exhibition Booth No Stall on P-1 (23.09) at the Cannes Film Festival 2025. Mr. Rajat Agrawal, COO & Director of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group will be happy to share with you various details around it.