Ageas Federal Life Insurance Launches First-of-its-Kind “India Sector Leaders Fund”

• Offers investors a unique opportunity to build long-term wealth

• Fund available at ₹10 Net Asset Value (NAV) during the New Fund Offer (NFO) subscription period commencing from July 14

• Becomes the first life insurer to offer this fund to its customers

Ageas Federal Life Insurance, one of India’s leading private life insurance companies, has announced the launch of its first-of-its-kind “India Sector Leaders Fund”. This unique fund allows investors to participate in domestic equities with a medium - to long-term investment horizon. With this launch, the company becomes the first life insurer to offer such a fund to its customers. 

The fund is being launched at a flat ₹10 Net Asset Value (NAV) and will be available for a limited period during its New Fund Offer (NFO) from July 14. The fund aims to deliver strong returns by investing in leading stocks of the BSE India Sector Leaders Index. 

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Atul Srivastava, Chief Distribution Officer, Ageas Federal Life Insurance, said, “At Ageas Federal Life Insurance, we are dedicated to enabling smarter investment choices that align personal financial goals with India’s long-term economic progress. The India Sector Leaders Fund is more than just a fund— it empowers individuals to invest with purpose and confidence. We are creating opportunities for today’s investors to participate meaningfully in India’s growth story. This reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and robust financial solutions.”

The fund invests in 22 diverse sectors as defined in India Industry Classification Structure, offering a broad, sector-diversified portfolio that minimizes concentration risk while capturing opportunities across the market spectrum. 

Through this offering, Ageas Federal Life Insurance furthers its mission of simplifying wealth creation by delivering innovative, investor-centric financial solutions. To know more, visit your nearest Ageas Federal Life Insurance branch or consult your financial advisor.

TENDERCUTS GETS RECOGNISED FOR ITS “EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE”

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Path-breaking reforms introduced, employee empowerment and trust driving the brand’s growth now

TenderCuts, India’s first omnichannel meat and seafood brand, has been awarded the ET HR World Employee Experience Award 2025 for its culture-first approach during the restructuring post the crisis. The award was received by Sasikumar Kallanai, Co-founder of TenderCuts & Chief People Officer at an event held in the city recently.

On the honour, Sasikumar Kallanai, said, “We are elated at receiving this recognition for our conscious decision to make a culture-led comeback. The restructuring and revival efforts have been smooth, fruitful and profitable because of our employees. Their empowerment and the trust we placed on them aided the business transformation. This award is a tribute to the people who rebuilt the business from the frontlines. It is proof that resilience, trust, and inclusion can be more powerful than any cost-cutting strategy. We strongly believe that culture — not just capital — will be the differentiator in achieving that growth.”

TenderCuts implemented a radical reset of both its operating model and the workplace culture. Several people-centric reforms were introduced, moving human resources from being a support function to a strategic lever in driving profitability.  

As part of its HR 2.0 strategy, TenderCuts empowered store managers with full P&L responsibility, introduced career pathways for meat processing experts, and institutionalised recognition programmes like the Hall of Achievers. The brand also made significant strides in gender inclusion — with 4 out of 18 stores now led by women, and key corporate roles in L&D, infrastructure, and marketing held by women professionals. In a move to solidify its people-first identity, TenderCuts announced that all its front-end retail staff will be known as ‘Store Partners’. These Store Partners play entrepreneurial roles at work managing revenue, wastage and driving customer experience and bottom-line performance.

The company was also recently recognised as the Most Trusted & Futuristic Omnichannel Meat Retailer Brand of the Year 2025 and its founder received the Innovative & Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year – South India award at The Great Indian entrepreneurship, design, business & startup awards & conference, 2025.  

ETHRWorld is the flagship digital platform for the HR vertical of The Economic Times, the second largest widely read business newspaper and digital media platform in the world.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor announces Six airbag as a standard and a New Accessory package “Prestige edition” in Glanza

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  Reinforces safety with the introduction of six airbags as standard across all variants

• Enhanced value addition with the New ‘Prestige Package’

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced two significant updates to its hatchback, the Toyota Glanza, aimed at further strengthening safety and enhancing overall customer value.

Safety First: Six Airbags Standard Across All Variants

Reinforcing its commitment to safety, all variants of the Toyota Glanza will now come equipped with six airbags as standard, offering comprehensive protection for both the driver and passengers.  Loved for its premium styling and fully loaded technology features, the Toyota Glanza continues to be a preferred choice among first-time car buyers, young professionals, and urban commuters. Winning hearts for its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and hassle-free ownership, the inclusion of six airbags as standard is expected to further strengthens its appeal while ensuring peace of mind for every customer.

Enhanced Value with the New ‘Prestige Package’

To further enrich the ownership experience, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has also introduced a limited period ‘Prestige Package’, a thoughtfully curated accessory bundle designed to elevate the Glanza’s style, comfort, and everyday convenience. Available from XX June to 31st July 2025, the Prestige Package includes dealer-fitted accessories, including:

1. Premium door visors

2. Body side moulding with chrome and black accents

3. Rear lamp garnish

4. Chrome garnishes for ORVMs and fenders

5. Rear skid plate

6. Illuminated door sills

7. Lower grille garnish

Toyota Glanza - Smart Mobility Meets Everyday Practicality

Celebrating six years in India with over 2 lakhs of unit being sold, the Toyota Glanza has emerged as a preferred choice among Indian families, offering a winning combination of dynamic styling, fuel efficiency, advanced features, and Toyota’s renowned reliability. Powered by a 1.2-litre K-Series petrol engine, the Glanza offers impressive mileage of up to 22.94 km/l (AMT) and 30.61 km/kg (CNG), along with segment-leading features such as a 9-inch infotainment system, Head-Up Display (HUD), 360-degree camera, and Toyota i-Connect with 45+ connected features.

Designed for today’s urban lifestyle, the car stands out for its bold exterior styling—featuring a signature Toyota grille, LED projector headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a vibrant colour palette including Sporting Red, Insta Blue, Enticing Silver, Gaming Grey, and Café White.  The premium dual-tone cabin offers ample space, rear AC vents, automatic climate control, and tilt & telescopic steering for enhanced driving comfort. With safety features such as six airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Hill Hold Assist, and a robust TECT body structure, the Glanza ensures a confident and secure driving experience.

The Toyota Glanza is designed not only to impress on the road but also to deliver complete peace of mind. Backed by a robust 3-year/100,000 km warranty—extendable up to 5 years/220,000 km—it ensures delightful ownership experience. This complemented by Toyota’s signature 60-minute Express Maintenance service, round-the-clock roadside assistance, and a host of flexible and customer-friendly finance options, make the Glanza a perfect choice. 

The Toyota Glanza with the enhanced feature upgrade starts at an attractive price of Rs. 6.90 lacs [ex showroom].

Customers can visit their nearest Toyota dealership or book online at https://www.toyotabharat.com/#

Mother’s Recipe Launches “Hearty Roots” – India’s First Healthy, Ayurveda-Inspired Pickle Range for Naya India

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A bold, Healthy twist on the most traditional Indian food – with superfoods like Ashwagandha, Moringa, Flax Seeds & ZERO Oil

Mother’s Recipe, India’s trusted homegrown legacy brand synonymous with homemade, traditional and authentic products, proudly announces the launch of its groundbreaking new brand: Hearty Roots a range of Ayurveda-inspired pickles designed for a new generation of wellness-conscious consumers.

Hearty Roots brings together the rich traditions of Indian kitchens with the clean, functional ingredients embraced by today’s health-focused consumer. This unique range of pickles delivers flavour, gut-health benefits and cultural nostalgia with every bite thoughtfully created to resonate with modern lifestyles while remaining deeply rooted in age-old wisdom.

The Hearty Roots range includes:

• Lime Pickle (Oil-Free) – made with zero oil, ideal for heart health and clean eating

• Mango Pickle with Ashwagandha – supporting stress resilience

• Mango Pickle with Flax Seeds – rich in omega-3s, great for cholesterol and digestion

• Garlic Pickle with Moringa Leaves – a bold antioxidant boost

• Sweet Lime Pickle with 100% Jaggery – a natural, iron-rich twist on a sweet classic

• Brinjal Pickle – packed with antioxidants and essential minerals

• Karela Pickle – beneficial for blood sugar regulation and immunity

Each jar is made using traditional sun-curing and fermentation techniques, with a clean-label promise no added artificial preservatives or additives. The brand blends Indian craftsmanship with nutrition science to create pickles that are both familiar and future ready.

Consumer research reveals a notable shift among younger audiences, especially millennials, toward healthier food alternatives. Millennials, known for their discerning tastes and health awareness, proactively seek out products that offer both nutritional value and authentic taste. Similarly, older consumers facing health challenges such as diabetes and hypertension increasingly require diet-friendly options. Hearty Roots responds precisely to these evolving consumer demands.

Hearty Roots perfectly aligns with the booming INR 10,352 crore health and wellness foods market, currently growing at approximately 10% annually. This range strategically leverages Mother’s Recipe’s deep consumer understanding and B2C marketing strategies to target specific audiences with precision. By preserving traditional flavours and introducing power-packed superfoods, Hearty Roots ensures that every bite is both nutritious and delicious.

Sanjana Desai, Executive Director at Desai Foods and the force behind the launch, shared,

“Every household has grown up with the familiar taste of pickles, passed down with love through generations. With Hearty Roots, we are holding on to that emotion while responding to how food habits are evolving today. This brand reflects a conscious step forward - making wellness accessible through ingredients that are time-tested and purposeful. Hearty Roots is rooted in our culture, created for those who seek flavour, function and familiarity on every plate.”

Hearty Roots stands out with no compromise on taste, every element from the clean ingredients to the vibrant, culturally proud packaging is designed to resonate with today’s consumer who seeks both meaning and mindfulness on their plate. 

The Hearty Roots range is now available online across Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi, & Hyderabad via quick commerce platforms like Zepto, SwiggyInstamart, Amazon Fresh and Bigbasket leading e-commerce websites and the brand’s official website www.mothersrecipe.com. The products will soon be available in select specialty stores and are poised to reach more cities across India.

MG Group Unveils “TIGRA” Super-Premium Luxury Coach, Launches New Corporate & Brand Identity

Designed and manufactured at the MG Group's manufacturing unit at Belagavi. The TIGRA offers supreme comfort and safety, and is available on all 13.5-meter coach chassis for both domestic and international markets

MG Group, one of India's leading privately-owned bus and coach manufacturer marked a significant milestone by unveiling its new corporate identity and  “TIGRA”, a revolutionary range of in-house developed super-premium intercity coaches. Designed and manufactured at the MG Group's coach manufacturing plant at Belagavi, the TIGRA offers supreme comfort and safety and is available on all 13.5-meter coach chassis for both domestic and international markets.

These pivotal launches, catering to both domestic and international markets, took place at the Group's flagship "RE:BORN" event, held at The Royal Senate, Palace Grounds in Bengaluru. Present at the launch were from the leadership team of MG Group, that includes Mr. Anil Mohan Kamat, Chairman & Managing Director, MG Group, Mr. Sivakumar V., President – Strategy & Sales, MG Group, Mr. Gireesha Prabhu, Chief Operating Officer, MG Group along with the key stakeholders from across the automotive and mobility ecosystem, including MG’s coach customers, suppliers, and technology partners.

Commenting on the new product launches, Mr. Sivakumar V, President – Strategy & Sales, MG Group, said, “In the bus and coach body-building industry, progress is never overnight. It’s built on strong relationships, consistent quality, and the ability to evolve with changing transportation needs. MG is not just a legacy of engineering — it’s a legacy of character. The Tigra is going to a segment leader from day one, we are optimistic of that.”

Launch of New Corporate Identity: A Strategic Repositioning

The unveiling of MG Group’s new corporate identity marks the completion of a decade since MG’s entry into the premium coach segment. The new logo's uninterrupted flow from M to G symbolizes a seamless journey, guiding customers from concept to market and beyond. Its hexagonal silhouette, inspired by a metal bolt, reinforces the brand's engineering strength. 

It signifies a pivotal transformation—from a contract manufacturer supporting high-volume OEM production to a product-led, brand-driven mobility solutions provider. This refreshed identity reflects a broader strategic shift, positioning MG Group as a visible and value-creating force in the evolving transport landscape. 

"Over the past four decades, MG has built its reputation on consistent execution, design strength, and trusted OEM relationships,” said Anil Mohan Kamat, Chairman & Managing Director, MG Group, speaking on the new branding announcement. “This new identity signals a shift in our market positioning—we’re no longer just a reliable vendor behind the scenes. We are stepping forward as a brand that leads with innovation, design, and premium product offerings like TIGRA.”  

The brand refresh includes a new visual language and messaging strategy designed to better represent MG’s end-to-end capabilities and growing ambition in the intercity coach and future-ready mobility segments. 

While talking at the launch event, Mr. Gireesha Prabhu, Chief Operating Officer, MG Group, said,   

“Today, we don’t just unveil a new identity. We welcome a new era — bold instance, global in vision, and human at heart. TIGRA offers supreme comfort, safety, and serviceability on all available 13.5-meter coach chassis.” 

TIGRA: A Super-Premium Coach for the Intercity Segment 

The unveiling of TIGRA from MG Group represents a newly developed, fully engineered, and premium product offering aimed at long-haul intercity and tourism applications. Designed and developed at MG’s coach manufacturing plant, TIGRA offers supreme comfort, safety, and serviceability on all available 13.5-meter coach chassis, boasting the following key features:

• ABS-moulded plush interiors with no sharp edges or visible fasteners, ensure a sleek and safe environment.

• Integrated ambient lighting and premium berth and seat upholstery for an elevated passenger experience.

• Signature styling with full-length Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and a unique heartbeat-style light strip for a distinctive presence.

• High-quality PU moulded assistance handles designed for enhanced passenger safety and convenience.

Production of TIGRA will be undertaken at MG’s state-of-the-art Coach Manufacturing facility in Belagavi, Karnataka, which has recently seen substantial investments in tooling, jigs, and quality systems for high-output coach manufacturing. 

Legacy and Future Outlook

With over 125,000 bus bodies delivered across diverse applications—including school, staff, intercity, luxury, mofussil, and special-purpose segments (such as defense and ambulance applications)—MG Group brings deep domain expertise and execution capability. Its vertically integrated operations span the entire product lifecycle: from digital design and prototyping to electrical systems, interiors, composites, and full-scale mass and custom manufacturing. 

In addition to this, MG offers a unique and robust after-sales network, providing essential support to its pan-India customer base. 

The launch of TIGRA and the new brand identity mark the beginning of MG Group’s next chapter, endeavouring to satisfy the evolving need for passenger comfort and luxury while continuing to be a trendsetter in the luxury coach segment.

Guided by Pranit Ramchandani, Vidya Pillai Wins Commonwealth Gold in Heyball

As the global spotlight turns to Heyball — one of the world’s fastest-growing cuesports — India finds itself in capable hands with Pranit J Ramchandani and Vidya Pillai leading the charge. With the sport firmly on track for Olympic recognition and prize money now exceeding USD 5 million annually, India’s cueing revolution has truly begun. 

Pranit, a world ranked Heyball player, internationally certified coach, promoter, and founder of the Heyball Academy in Bengaluru, has been instrumental in launching and establishing the sport in India. His holistic approach to athlete development, infrastructure, and international visibility has placed India firmly on the global Heyball map.

 

The latest high point came just days ago, when Vidya Pillai, one of India’s most accomplished players, claimed Gold at the Commonwealth Cuesports Championship in Mauritius, competing in Heyball for the first time at that level. Her victory signals a new chapter not just in her career, but in the trajectory of the sport in India.

 

“I began coaching Vidya back in 2018,” says Pranit. “She has trusted every step of our journey — from refining her technique in snooker, to mastering the mental game, and now, transitioning into Heyball. She embraced the changes and adapted quickly. What she’s achieved is incredible, and there’s more to come.”

 

Under Pranit’s guidance, Vidya has amassed titles across World and National Snooker, 9 Ball, 10 Ball, and now Commonwealth Gold in Heyball. Known for her relentless work ethic, she continues to train at the Heyball Academy in Bengaluru, the only facility in India equipped with official Joy Heyball tables, used at the world’s top events.

 

“She’s the first one at the academy, trains with focus, and heads back to manage her family life — she’s an inspiration,” adds Pranit.

 

In 2024, Pranit took things further by bringing the inaugural WPA World Junior Heyball Championship to India, hosting over 32 countries, and formally introducing the sport to the country. It was a landmark moment that underlined India’s commitment to the future of Heyball.

 

As a competitor himself, Pranit is ranked World Number 17, earned at the 2024 2025 World Heyball Championship in Slovenia. He also secured a bronze at the World Team Championship in Poland and finished in the Top 6 at the Asian Tour in Vietnam — cementing his credentials both on and off the table.

 

With Vidya’s Gold, India’s presence in the sport is only getting stronger. “The international calendar is packed, the prize money is serious, and Heyball is knocking on the Olympic door,” Pranit says. “Now is the moment for India.”

 

Up next for Vidya: the Heyball World Championship, the Champion of Champions, and the World Cup, all set to take place in Australia later this year — and with it, the next chapter in India’s rise. 

For further information, please contact:

Pranit J Ramchandani @ +91 9884345549

World Number 17 Heyball (2024 2025 Season)

Internationally Certified Coach, Player, Promoter

Founder, Heyball Academy in Bengaluru

Organizer, WPA World Junior Heyball Championship

Email: acepranit@gmail.com

IDEMITSU Honda Racing India Riders continued momentum in a challenging Round 3 of 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship

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  Race 1&2 results of Asia Production 250cc class (AP250 class): Kavin Quintal and Johann Reeves finished Race 1 at 15th & 24th position and Race 2 at 31st and 25th position, respectively. 

The IDEMITSU Honda Racing India team riders took on a tough and action-packed Round 3 of the 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at the iconic Mobility Resort Motegi in Japan, wrapping up a weekend marked by intense racing and strong competition. 

The Indian duo, Kavin Quintal and Johann Reeves, showcased strong race craft and composure as they competed in the highly competitive Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.

Kavin Quintal started Race 1 from the 24th position on the grid for the 10-lap race. Navigating intense competition with skill and persistence, he finished the race in 15th place with a total time of 21:50.422, garnering one valuable point for the team. In Race 2, he put up a strong fight but couldn’t finish the race after a crash, ending up at 31st position, with a total time of 10:59.119 for five laps.

Meanwhile, Johann Reeves started from 28th on the grid in Race 1. He put in a solid performance, clocking consistent lap times on the demanding Motegi circuit. Reeves crossed the chequered flag at 24th position with a total time of 22.19.879. In Race 2, he held his position, finishing the race in 25th place with a total time of 22:12.781. 

Kavin earned 01 point in race 1, bringing their cumulative team total to 6 points for this season in the Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.

Sharing his thoughts, Kavin Quintal said, “Racing at Motegi Circuit today was demanding throughout. It was a tough day as unfortunately I couldn’t finish the race due to a crash. While the result isn’t what I hoped for, I am taking away valuable insights from today and staying motivated to improve in the upcoming rounds.”

Johann Reeves added, “Today’s race at Motegi Circuit tested me in every aspect. It was a challenging battle from the very beginning. With tough competition and a challenging track, I have gained valuable experience for the team and there is much to improve on. I am determined to come back stronger in the next races.” 

About 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC): The 28th edition of FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is Asia’s most competitive motorcycle road racing championship, held since 1996. The 2025 season, consisting of six rounds, kicked off with the season opener at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand from 25-27 April 2025. The second round took place in Malaysia from 30th May to 1st June 2025. The third round unfolded in Japan from 11th – 13th July. The fourth round will take place in Indonesia in August followed by the fifth round in Malaysia in October. The season finale will be held in December in at Chang International Circuit in Thailand.