Monday, July 7, 2025

Globalart’s Regional Competition - Kolor Champ ’25, Bengaluru


The Globalart Regional Competition - Kolor Champ ’25 in Bengaluru saw over 350 young artists from across the city come together to showcase their creativity. Children aged 5 to 15 years participated in this vibrant event, where they were given a platform to create their unique artwork based on a topic announced on the spot.

The event was inaugurated by Chief Guest Ms. Suparna Das Gupta, Founder and Principal at Euro School, Electronic City, Bengaluru and Mr. Dinesh Victor, Founder & Managing Director of SIP Academy India, which runs the Globalart programme in India.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Suparna Das Gupta emphasized the importance of art in a child’s education, stating, “Art plays a crucial role in a child's overall development — it is not just about colours and brushes, but about expression, imagination, and confidence. I wholeheartedly encourage parents to nurture their child’s artistic journey. It is heartening to see Globalart creating such a vibrant platform for young minds to explore and express their creativity. My best wishes to Globalart, its dedicated team, and all the budding artists for continued success and inspiration.”

Mr. Dinesh Victor, Managing Director of SIP Academy India, highlighted the growing participation each year, saying, “Creativity is essential not only in today’s world but also for the future wherein AI is going to play a vital role. The Globalart programme, which nurtures children’s creativity through drawing and colouring. And, all children love to draw and colour. By cultivating creativity from a young age, our children, will be better equipped to find innovative solutions to the complex challenges of our rapidly evolving world.” Mr. Dinesh Victor also noted, “Many of our former Globalart students, now thriving in creative fields such as interior design, architecture, graphic design, and fashion design, attribute their success to their time with Globalart. In the recent 20th Year Anniversary Celebration of Globalart in Chennai we had many such Alumni testimonies appreciating the programme!”

About Globalart

Launched in India by SIP Academy India in 2005, Globalart is a unique international creative art program for children aged 5 to 15 years. Endorsed by LeFranc & Bourgeois, France, and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, Malaysia, Globalart operates in 23 countries with over 650 centers worldwide, training more than 275,000 children. In India, Globalart is present in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, the National Capital Region, Puducherry, Rajasthan, and Telangana, reaching over 95,000 children across 147 centers. The program’s well-researched syllabus provides systematic training while nurturing creative thinking. Many Globalart alumni have gone on to excel in creative fields like design, architecture, and fashion.

National & International Recognition

  • The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) featured Globalart children’s work on their website for the ‘Save the Tiger’ and ‘Climate Change’ campaigns.

  • Globalart students’ work was displayed at the 2nd World Ministerial Conference in Bali, Indonesia, with delegates from 13 tiger-range countries in 2010. WWF Indonesia awarded certificates of appreciation to Globalart and the participating students.

  • Special postcards featuring Globalart students’ work were released by WWF in 2012 with appreciation messages for Tiger Rangers.

  • Globalart received a Limca Book of Records certification for conducting the 1st International Kolor Champ in India. The competition, held on November 27th, 2010, in Hyderabad, featured 584 children from seven countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, USA, and India).

Anandana – The Coca-Cola India Foundation Launched ‘Used PET Bottle-Free Puri Rath Yatra 2025’


  • As a part of Maidaan Saaf, the initiative deployed nearly 200 volunteers, 200 PET bins, and 10 helpdesks in Puri to promote responsible waste management

 

To drive collective action on waste management in Puri, Odisha; Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, in collaboration with Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), Puri Municipality, District Administration (Puri), Odisha Development Management Programme (ODMP), and Y4D Foundation launched the ‘Used PET Bottle-Free Puri Rath Yatra 2025’ initiative.

 

The launch ceremony commenced on 26th June 2025 with a used PET bottle clean-up drive from Digabareni Square to Swargadwar, in the esteemed presence of Shri Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, Hon’ble Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Government of Odisha; Jayanta Kumar Sarangi, Former Member of Odisha Legislative Assembly; and Shri Abhimanyu Behera, Executive Officer, Puri Municipality.

 

As part of the Maidaan Saaf campaign, nearly 200 volunteers were deployed to collect used PET bottles and raise awareness among the visitors on responsible waste management practices. Over 200 PET collection bins were installed across select high-footfall areas in the city.  Additionally, 10 help desks, manned by trained vendors, were set up at strategic locations intended to guide and educate visitors on eco-friendly disposal practices.

 

Recognizing the initiative, Shri Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, Hon’ble Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Government of Odisha, stated, "The Puri Rath Yatra is one of Odisha’s most revered and high-footfall events. It is our collective responsibility to ensure it remains clean and environmentally sustainable. I commend the efforts of Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), and their partners for launching this meaningful initiative. By engaging communities and deploying practical waste management solutions, they’ve set a strong example of how collaboration drives real change on the ground."

 

Commenting on the effort, Devyani R L Rana, Vice President – Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, said, “Coca-Cola India is humbled to support the city of Puri by enabling used-PET bottle collection across public areas. Along with our partners, every element of this initiative has been designed in alignment with the city’s needs and built on the principle of collective action. We see this as an opportunity to contribute to a larger purpose, and to do it with intent. Integrating the Maidaan Saaf campaign into this initiative, demonstrates how innovative recycling solutions can be deployed to encourage visitors to adopt eco-friendly practices."

 

With a focus on creating a social impact, Himanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Public Affairs and Sustainability Officer, HCCB, stated, “As we rejoice in a grand cultural and social celebration in Puri, that brings together people from across the country, we recognize our shared responsibility to care for the host city. Our ‘Green Sweep’ initiative is built on the principles of environmental stewardship, where strategic collection points play a pivotal role in collecting, segregating, and transporting used-PET bottles to recyclers. With the trained safai sathis and engaging traditional storytelling through Nukkad Natak in Odia, we aim to make the celebration in Puri free of used PET bottles, together with Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, and the Odisha government."

 

A series of community-focused clean-up activities included a beach clean-up drive near GM Law College in Penthakotta and a plog run from Gundicha Temple to Badasankha.  These collective efforts reflect a shared responsibility to environmental stewardship and demonstrate how collaboration between civic bodies, corporate partners, and local communities can drive meaningful change.

Saturday, July 5, 2025

Malaysia Airlines Expands Access to Australia with Additional Brisbane Flights and Exclusive Fares


Malaysia Airlines is boosting its presence in Australia with additional frequencies to Brisbane from 29 November 2025, enhancing connectivity for travellers from major Indian cities via Kuala Lumpur. To celebrate the expanded services, the airline is offering limited-time all-inclusive return fares, available for booking until 31 July 2025. 

The additional frequencies on the Kuala Lumpur–Brisbane route further cement Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to expanding its international network and facilitating smoother connections between India and Australia—two key growth markets. The airline currently operates flights from India’s leading cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

 

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “Brisbane is a vibrant gateway to Australia’s east coast and an important hub for education, culture, and eco-tourism. We’re delighted to expand our network and further bridge the growing travel demand between India and Australia by offering greater choice, comfort, and seamless connectivity across Asia and beyond. With our signature Malaysian Hospitality, and enhanced access from major Indian cities, we look forward to welcoming more Indian travellers onboard and making every journey to Brisbane a memorable and enriching experience.”

 

From lush rainforests to urban sophistication, Brisbane offers something for every traveller. Families can enjoy unique experiences such as cuddling koalas at the world-famous Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, swimming in the sparkling lagoons of South Bank Parklands, or exploring the interactive exhibits at Queensland Museum and Science Centre. Nature lovers can unwind on the white sands of Tangalooma Island Resort, where snorkelling and whale watching await. With panoramic views from Mt Coot-tha and tranquil paths through the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, the city offers the perfect mix of discovery, relaxation, and outdoor fun.

 

To complement these unforgettable experiences, Malaysia Airlines’ Business Class passengers can expect a seamless and elevated journey, thoughtfully designed to deliver comfort at every touchpoint. From priority check-in and boarding to exclusive access to the Golden Lounge, every detail is tailored for a premium experience. Onboard, guests can enjoy gourmet dining with the Chef-on-Call service, complimentary seat selection, in-flight comfort kits, and award-winning Malaysian Hospitality that sets the airline apart. In addition, all passengers benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi across all cabins, a curated selection of entertainment via MHstudio, and special touches like ‘Pilot Parker’ activity packs for young travellers—ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for every guest.

 

Adding further value, Malaysia Airlines also offers international passengers the opportunity to explore more of Malaysia with its Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme. Passengers transiting through Kuala Lumpur can enjoy a complimentary domestic return flight to one of seven local destinations, including Penang, Langkawi, and Kota Bharu—making every long-haul trip a multi-destination adventure.

 

For a smooth and hassle-free journey, book your flights now on book your flights now on Malaysia Airlines’ official website: www.malaysiaairlines.com or via the mobile app.

  

About Malaysia Airlines 

Malaysia Airlines is the national carrier of Malaysia, offering the best way to fly to, from and around Malaysia through its premium and full-service offerings. Malaysia Airlines carries up to 40,000 guests daily on memorable journeys inspired by Malaysia’s diverse richness. As the nation’s flag bearer, it embodies the incredible diversity of Malaysia; capturing its rich traditions, cultures and cuisines via its inimitable Malaysian Hospitality across all customer touch points. 

 

Since September 2015, the airline has been owned and operated by Malaysia Airlines Berhad. It is part of the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), a global aviation organisation that comprises of different aviation business and lifestyle travel solution portfolios aimed at serving global air travel needs. The airline is committed to facilitating safe and seamless travels by placing safety and hygiene as the anchor across all end-to-end consumer touchpoints in line with its MHFlySafe initiative. Via its alliance with oneworld®, Malaysia Airlines offers superior connectivity to more than 900 destinations in 170 territories across the globe. For more information, visit www.malaysiaairlines.com and download the Malaysia Airlines app to get the latest promotions conveniently at your fingertips. 

PNB Launches “Monsoon Bonanza 2025” Retail Loan Campaign with Attractive Offers and Concessions


Punjab National Bank (PNB), India's leading public sector bank, has launched “PNB Monsoon Bonanza 2025” retail loan campaign, effective from July 01, 2025. The campaign aims to drive retail loan growth through targeted offers with enhanced customer experience across home loans, car loans, and other retail loan segments. 

During the campaign period, PNB is offering several attractive concessions to make borrowing more affordable for customers:

Home Loans & Car Loans:

  • Complete waiver of processing fee and documentation charges.

  • For home loan takeovers above Rs. 50 lakh, NEC/Legal and Valuation charges will be borne by the bank.

Additional Benefits:

  • Special concession of 5 basis points reduction in card rates for both home loans and car loans.

Shri Subodh Kumar, GM, RABD, PNB, said, “Through our 'PNB Monsoon Bonanza 2025' campaign, we are committed to make credit more accessible and affordable for our customers. The attractive concessions including complete waiver of processing fees reflect our customer-first approach.”

Toyota Kirloskar Motor inaugurates New City Office in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar


Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the inauguration of its new city office in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (CSN), Maharashtra — a key milestone towards strengthening its presence in the State of Maharashtra and reaffirming its commitment to contributing India’s automotive industry. 

This development follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between TKM and the Government of Maharashtra in July 2024, aimed at facilitating the establishment of a Greenfield Manufacturing Facility in the region. The new office will serve as a critical hub for advancing TKM’s regional operations and reinforcing its long-term commitment to industrial development with focus on sustainability, creation of skilled manpower and jobs, and giving back to the society across Maharashtra.

 

The new office located at ABC EAST Beside Prozone Mall Chikalthana spanning 7000 sq. ft. was inaugurated by Mr. Masakazu Yoshimura, Chairman, MD & CEO, TKM, Mr. Swapnesh Maru, Deputy Managing Director Corporate Planning, Green Field Project. This newly established office reinforces TKM’s commitment to strengthening its presence in Maharashtra, contributing to the region’s emergence as a manufacturing hub, and deepening engagement with key stakeholders—including local authorities, industry bodies.

 

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Swapnesh Maru, Deputy Managing Director Corporate Planning, Green Field Project, TKM said, “The inauguration of our new office in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar will enable us with a more localised approach by deepening our market engagement and stakeholder connect. Looking ahead, we remain committed to bringing in world-class manufacturing capabilities to the region—unlocking Marathwada’s potential by creating employment, nurturing skilled talent, and driving inclusive, sustainable growth.

 

With strong government support, we are confident that our presence will serve as a catalyst for regional transformation and aligns with our vision of contributing to India’s industrial development and the national aspiration of Viksit Bharat @2047.”

 

Guided by the philosophy of ‘Grow India – Grow with India’, the inauguration of the Office in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is a reaffirmation of Toyota’s deep-rooted belief in India’s growth potential. With a strong legacy behind it and a future anchored in innovation, sustainability, and local empowerment, TKM remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing a robust mobility ecosystem that supports both regional aspirations and national development goals.

 

With the MoU progressing as planned, TKM is actively workings towards rolling out key initiatives to strengthen the local ecosystem. These efforts include the launch of industry-relevant skill development programs and targeted support to educational institutions, encompassing infrastructure upgrades and access to essential learning resources—further reinforcing TKM’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth by contributing towards the creation of a skilled worldclass talent pool.

Friday, July 4, 2025

Coal India, SCCL and Heartfulness sign MoU towards restoration of closed mines and sustainable livelihoods


Coal India Ltd., The Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) joined hands with Heartfulness  (led by Revered Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness & President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission) by signing two MoUs respectively as announced by the Ministry of Coal and Mines (Govt. of India). Shri G. Kishan Reddy - Hon’ble Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Govt. Of India graced the MoU signing event at Kanha Shanti Vanam – the headquarters of Heartfulness, in the outskirts of Hyderabad today. The Union Minister was joined by Shri Satish Chandra Dubey - Hon’ble Minister of State of Coal and Mines, Govt. Of India, Senior Management and Representatives of Coal India Ltd., SCCL and Heartfulness. The purpose of the MoUs is to foster restoration, bringing a green cover and develop an ecosystem at the mine closure sites through Heartfulness Institute resources in alignment with the RECLAIM initiative.

The RECLAIM initiative which is an acronym for 1. Reach-out 2. Envision 3.Co-design 4. Localise 5. Act 6. Integrate 7. Maintain is intended at Community Engagement and Development Framework for Mine Closure and Repurposing. It builds on field experience and global good practices including guidance from ICMM (2022), the Sustainable Development Goals, and IFC Performance Standards.

Heartfulness Institute will provide the necessary technology and resources in creating a viable green cover over the closed mines, controlling and sequestering hazardous gases, replenish the soil layers and creating a sustainable ecosystem at the mine closure sites. The framework will generate the livelihoods of those around the closed mining sites or those who depending on mining for livelihoods.

The MoUs will ensure that the regions that once shaped by extraction become spaces for renewal, dignity and opportunity.  Since mine closures significantly impact both landscapes, there is a need to restore natural systems. An equal need to strengthen local institutions and enabling sustainable livelihoods is felt. The RECLAIM framework is a key step toward as a structured guide for inclusive community engagement and development throughout the mine closure and post-closure phases. It offers a practical, step-by-step approach to institutionalizing community participation in the transition process.

Shri G. Kishan Reddy – Hon’ble Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Govt. of India said, “We are committed to restoring the closed mine sites as it is time for us to give back to nature. The Govt. Mandates mine closures in the most scientific and sustainable way and replenish the mining sites with economic and environmental value across the country. Heartfulness’s meticulousness in creating a sustainable ecosystem is evident at Kanha Shanti Vanam, the Heartfulness headquarters. By joining hands with them, we will do all we can do for restoration, repurposing, long-term socio-economic growth by generating livelihoods.”

It is an opportune moment for Heartfulness to give life to the closed mining sites. Since the extraction depletes the site of nature’s bounty, we should feel the responsibility in giving back in the best of our ability not only in terms of creating a viable ecosystem but also help create sustainable livelihoods in such regions across the country,” added Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission.

The framework is supported by a suite of actionable tools, templates, and field-tested methodologies tailored to the Indian context. Special emphasis is placed on gender inclusivity, the representation of vulnerable groups, and alignment with Panchayati Raj Institutions, ensuring that the transition is equitable and locally relevant

Happiest Health launches 'The Longevity Issue' that separates scientific fact from fiction in ageing


Happiest Health, a leading Indian health and wellness company, has introduced ‘The Longevity Issue,’ a special magazine edition designed as a durable guide to the science and practice of healthy aging. This new monthly issue in July translates complex research on longevity into a clear, actionable framework to empower individuals on their long-term health journey.

“Our goal was to pair rigorous science with day-to-day actions that work in Indian settings,” said Raghu Krishnan, Co-CEO, Happiest Health - Knowledge. “Whether you’re tracking biological age, sharpening grip strength, or returning to a badminton court, the advice in this issue is realistic, affordable and ready to try.”


The Longevity Issue is created for anyone invested in their long-term health, from wellness enthusiasts to healthcare professionals.


“This is timely knowledge for a better healthspan than just lifespan,” said Ravi Joshi, Co-CEO, Happiest Health – Knowledge. “Our philosophy is to spread awareness about preventive health to our readers”


The edition features insights from leading global experts like Professor Andrea Maier, Director, NUS Academy for Healthy Longevity and founder of Chi Longevity; Dr. Virginia Boccardi, Associate Professor of Gerontology and Geriatrics, University of Perugia, Italy; Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, Scientific Director, U.S. National Institute on Aging; Professor Deepak Kumar Saini, Professor, Department of Developmental Biology & Genetics, Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and convenor of Longevity India Initiative; Valter Longo, Professor of Gerontology and Biological Sciences and Director of the Longevity Institute at the University of Southern California; among others.


Inside The Longevity Issue, readers will discover:

The Science of Slowing Time: A framework on next-generation longevity science, including senolytics and cellular reprogramming, alongside foundational, proven habits.

A New Health Metric: How advanced blood, DNA, and microbiome tests reveal your biological age, enabling proactive health changes before disease appears.

Guidance from a Global Leader: An exclusive interview with Dr. Luigi Ferrucci of the U.S. National Institute on Aging on why simple prevention outweighs any future pill.

The India Longevity Blueprint: Insights from IISc researcher Prof. Deepak Kumar Saini on optimizing key biomarkers, sleep, nutrition, and movement for the Indian context.

The Wisdom of Experience: The powerful routine of a 94-year-old paediatrician, revealing the interplay of simple meals, light exercise, and community.

Engineering Better Sleep: The evidence on how quality sleep clears brain toxins, balances hormones, and stabilizes blood sugar for long-term health.


Availability

The Longevity Issue is available for purchase through the Happiest Health website at happiesthealth.com/magazine-subscription, and is also available on Amazon, Flipkart, Zepto, and in airports, railway stations, magazine stalls and bookstores across 40 cities in India.


About Happiest Health

Happiest Health is an integrated health and wellness company dedicated to helping people achieve better health through knowledge, diagnostics, and care. By uniquely combining evidence-based content with state-of-the-art diagnostic services and away-from-hospital clinics, we are building a new, proactive model for personal and corporate well-being. Our mission is to empower everyone with the tools and information they need to prevent illness and enhance their wellness journey.

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