Tata Steel signs MoU with Punjab Government to set up a steel scrap based electric arc furnace steel plant

~ The MoU reinforces Company’s commitment to growth with sustainability ~

~ Yet another initiative in our journey of becoming Net Zero by 2045 ~

Chandigarh, August 30, 2022: Tata Steel signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on August 26, 2022 with the Government of Punjab for setting up a 0.75 MnTPA long products steel plant with a scrap-based electric arc furnace (EAF). The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Bhagwant Mann, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Punjab.

This initiative to set up the greenfield facility at Kadiana Khurd, Hitech Valley, Ludhiana in Punjab is part of Tata Steel’s commitment to investing in a circular economy andtransitioning to low-carbon steelmaking through the steel recycling route. It is a step aligned to the Company’s goal of achieving Net Zero carbon emission by 2045.

The state-of-the art EAF-based steel plant would produce construction grade steel rebar under the Company’s flagship retail brand ‘Tata Tiscon’, which would enable Tata Steel to further augment its market presence in the construction segment.

Shri Bhagwant Mann, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Punjab, said: “It is with immense pleasure that I welcome the Tata Group to the State of Punjab. The investment by the Tata Group in the Steel Sector in Punjab will boost industrial growth in the State. This is a proud moment for Punjab. My Government extends full support to make this venture a great success. I am confident that the youth of Punjab will benefit from the employment opportunities generated by this project.”

On the occasion, T. V. Narendran, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Tata Steel, said: “I would like to thank the Government of Punjab for their support towards our ambitious greenfield project in the State. Punjab is an ideal location for our electric arc furnace given its proximity to the market and scrap generating Auto hub. Steel produced through the recycled route entails lower resource consumption and lower carbon emissions, which reinforces our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our operations. We see a good long-term potential of growth for steel making through scrap route in India, if effective and simplified scrap collection policies are made and implemented.”

In August last year, Tata Steel commissioned its first Steel Recycling Plant of 0.5 MnTPA capacity at Rohtak in Haryana. It is the first such state-of-the-art scrap processing facility in the country.

In pursuit of achieving its net zero ambition and attaining leadership in sustainability, Tata Steel has made focussed interventions across the value chain and is committed towards reducing its carbon footprint in production and through the life cycle of the product. In India, the Company aspires to achieve CO2 emission intensity of <2 tCO2 /tcs by 2025 and <1.8 tCO2/tcs by 2030.

To accelerate its efforts in ensuring product sustainability, Tata Steel is leveraging Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tool effectively to understand and improve the environmental performance of its products. In FY 2021-22, Tata Steel became the first steel rebar manufacturing company to receive GreenPro certification for its Tata Tiscon TMT rebars. The Company has also published its first Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for Steel Reinforcing bar (Rebar) used in Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) construction. In Europe, the Company has produced over 50 Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for its construction sector customers – a milestone in environmental impact transparency and reporting.

300 have a go at Freedom Run to bring about ‘Freedom from Plastic’

Ø The first such event in the Tricity which was completely free of plastic litter, Freedom Run 2022 organised by Panchkula-based Venus Remedies shunned the use of all single-use plastic items like packaged water bottles and plates made of plastic, thermocol

Panchkula, August 30, 2022: About 300 people from all walks of life took part in the second edition of “Freedom Run” on the eve of National Sports Day here on Sunday morning to drive home the message of keeping fit and active through running. The participants included 65 Chandigarh Distance Runners athletes and 26 students of the Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Chandigarh.

Organised by Panchkula-based pharmaceutical firm Venus Remedies in collaboration with the local chapter of the Indian Medical Association on the theme of “Freedom from Plastic”, it was the first such event in the Tricity which was completely free of plastic litter. This “green marathon” was devoid of single-use plastic with personal water bottles replacing packaged water in plastic bottles and paper plates substituting plates made of plastic and thermocol.

Flagging off “Freedom Run 2022” in the 21km (half-marathon), 10km and 5km categories from Sector 5, Panchkula, Venus Remedies Chairman and Managing Director Pawan Chaudhary said, “Besides promoting the message of staying fighting fit through running, this Freedom Run also aims to draw attention to the adverse impact of plastic waste on the environment by saying no to single-use plastic. It is a small beginning, but a decisive step in making people around us realise that they can all make a difference by avoiding the use of disposable plastic items in their day-to-day lives.”

Chaudhary later felicitated the winners, including Surender Gulia (men), Manisha (women) and Jaskaran Singh (senior citizens) in the 21km category, Vimal Kumar (men), Priya (women) and Mehar Singh (senior citizens) in the 10km run and Deep Raj (men), Ravita (women) and Urmesh Kumar (senior citizens) in the 5km category.

The event was organised under the banner of R3SET, a holistic pain management solution developed by Venus Remedies that signifies “freedom from pain” through a 360-degree self-care approach. The participants were provided running kits as well as access to R3SET recovery zones with R3SET products and experts to provide them relief in case of any pains or injuries while on the go.

Stressing that it takes healthy people to make a healthy nation, Akshansh Chaudhary, President, HR, Venus Remedies Ltd, said the Freedom Run is an initiative to provide a platform to health enthusiasts and help them realise their full potential by keeping in good physical shape.

About Venus Remedies

Panchkula-based Venus Remedies Ltd (NSE: VENUSREM, BSE: 526953) is leading injectable manufacturers in the world. Having presence in75 countries with a portfolio of as many products spread over Europe, Australia, Africa, Asia-Pacific, Commonwealth States, Middle East, Latin America and Caribbean region, the company has nine globally benchmarked facilities in Panchkula, Baddi and Werne (Germany), apart from 11 overseas marketing offices. Its manufacturing units are certified for ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 18001 and OHSAS. The company has also been approved by European-GMP, WHO-GMP and Latin American GMP (INVIMA), among others VRL has a renowned state-of-the-art research and development facility in Baddi – Venus Medicine Research Centre (VMRC) accredited with Global Laboratory Practice (GLP) certification, duly approved by the Department of Scientific & Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India. Venus Remedies has won more than 100 patents, 70 trademarks and 12 copyrights for its innovative research products worldwide.

For further information, please contact:

Amardeep Tiwana | Adfactors PR | Phone: 9814046480 | email: amardeep@adfactorspr.com

Tata Swach Tech Jal Community Water Purification units make clean and safe drinking water available for rural communities across 23 Indian states

~Ncourage Social Enterprise Foundation, a subsidiary of Tata Chemicals facilitates the availability of pure drinking water in more than 300 villages and 116 schools~

~Over 1 lakh people gain access to clean and safe drinking water ~

Chandigarh, 27^th August 2022: Ncourage Social Enterprise Foundation, a subsidiary of Tata Chemicals, has installed 457 ‘Tata Swach Tech Jal’ water purification units over a period of 5 years to make safe water accessible in remote areas of the country. Undertaken across 23 states in India, this initiative is benefiting over a lakh populace.

With this, people from over 300 villages across India now have access to clean drinking water, reiterating Tata Chemicals’ mission of ‘Serving Society through Science’. People residing in rural areas are the major beneficiaries of the Tata Swach Tech Jal water purification units, especially since the lack of water can lead to many waterborne diseases. These units have made filtered water accessible and affordable for them. 116 schools from across the country are also benefitting from this initiative.

“Tata Chemicals always strives to give back to society. Safe drinking water is a basic necessity for health. We have seen how people living in remote areas often suffer due to lack of potable water. This is due to the support of our 70+ partners & people, that the number of ‘Tata Swach Tech Jal’ water purification units installed has seen significant growth of 81% compared to last year” said Mr. R Nanda, Chief of HR and CSR, Tata Chemicals.

Tata Swach Tech Jal water purification units are hailed as a sustainable option for water purification, as it works without electricity and water wastage. Generally, with RO purifiers a lot of water goes to waste during the filtration process. But the Tata Swach Tech Jal water purification unitsfunction on advanced Ultrafiltration purification technology which gives clean drinking water with negligible water wastage, unlike conventional ROs where about 60% of water is wasted during the process of purification. This sustainable option provided by Tata Chemicals is in line with the theme of World Water Week 2022 of seeing the unseen significance of water.

Started in 2018, Ncourage is a social enterprise that undertakes activities that help solve the basic issue of clean and safe drinking water, which facilitates in curbing water-borne diseases.

“We have been able to provide these facilities in India at a time when one in three people do not have access to safe drinking water in the world, as per the United Nations. It is our consistent endeavour to pursue such projects for the wellbeing of our communities and uphold our values of SPICE – Safety, Passion, Integrity, Care and Excellence,” said Mr. R Nanda.

Apart from providing clean water to the communities, this initiative has also helped to encourage entrepreneurship at the community level through setting up of water kiosks to dispense potable drinking water at very affordable cost. Currently such Tata Swach Tech Jal dispenser units are functioning across the states of Telangana, Maharashtra, Andaman & Nicobar, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh.

ICICI Lombard launches a slew of 14 new products across Health, Motor and Corporate segments

The comprehensive line-up of innovative and tech-enabled insurance offerings,
will revolutionize the customer experience

Chandigarh, August 27, 2022: ICICI Lombard, India’s leading private non-life insurance company, launched its latest line-up of 14 new or enhanced insurance solutions, including riders/add-ons and upgrades across Health, Motor, Travel and Corporate segments. The slew of offerings announced at a press conference in Mumbai on Friday offers a comprehensive array of products across categories for a wide spectrum of customers. The product suite shall transform the way consumers experience insurance, providing them with a seamless journey and tech-enabled solutions.

The insurance industry is now seeing new types of risks emerging, be it pandemic, climate change or data privacy, and this calls for comprehensive coverage steered by the changing customer behaviour and driven by the advent of new technological solutions and opportunities. This was the core thought behind the new offerings and propelled by the recent revolutionary announcement of ‘Use and File’ framework from the IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority).

Speaking about the expansion of ICICI Lombard’s product portfolio, Sanjeev Mantri, Executive Director, ICICI Lombard, said, “We, at ICICI Lombard, have always been at the forefront of providing millions of customers with simplified and cutting-edge risk solutions that are tailored to their specific needs. Innovation and agility are a part of our organisational DNA and our comprehensive suite of offerings is designed to meet the myriad needs of customers, cutting across demographics of age, geographies, socio economic backgrounds or gender. Am elated to share that we have a product for virtually every segment and fuelled by regulatory reforms, we have accelerated our pace of developing and launching new products. I believe the current era in insurance industry is an exciting period to usher in innovation and reimagine possibilities. With 14 new products and upgrades on the anvil, has further cemented ICICI Lombard as a pre-eminent and comprehensive risk insurer of the nation.”

Highlights from the wide array of insurance offerings by segment and broad details are as hereunder:

Golden Shield provides financial security against uncertain health-related risks for senior citizens, a target segment that has remained underserved by the industry. The product provides customizable policies that cover exhaustive hospitalization expenses that are more relevant to customers in an older age bracket. The coverage includes expenses pertaining to room rent, ICU, doctor fees, anaesthesia, blood, oxygen, OT charges, medicines and more. It also includes medical expenses for day-care procedures/treatments requiring less than 24 hours of hospitalization, and for modern treatments including stem cell therapy, balloon sinuplasty, oral chemotherapy, robotic surgeries, deep brain stimulations and more. This comes with a unique add-on care coverage that provides the services of a healthcare professional assisting the senior individual take care of their health and keep the family members informed.

Health AdvantEdge, a flagship offering for the Global Citizen, includes domestic and worldwide international cover. It also includes enhancement of pre- and post-hospitalization, unlimited teleconsultation, air ambulance, and emergency assistance services.

BeFit: Introduced recently and a first of its kind in the industry as a cashless OPD policy, is BeFit that covers common ailments like cough/cold or minor injuries not requiring hospitalisation. It is an add-on rider to indemnity health products, which enables holistic coverage for routine OPD consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and pharmacy bills. What was initially launched in 20 locations has now broadened its reach to 50 locations.

Comprehensive Health Insurance (CHI) & Health Booster: We have a host of products across segments and age groups like CHI, Health Booster, CritiShield and FamilyShield which offer a comprehensive spread of retail health products and in line with company’s continuum of care philosophy.

Motor Floater Insurance: Customers can enjoy the convenience of a single policy, a single renewal date, and a single premium for all their motor policies with a Motor Floater Policy. Customers opting for this product are provided with an affordable premium for their multiple vehicles insured under this offering.

Telematics add-on: This add-on covers converts the base motor product into an ‘Asset cum Usage’ based product wherein the premium charged for the insurance of the base motor vehicle would depend partially on the usage.

o   Pay-As-You-Use (PAYU) Plan: Customers are provided with the flexibility to choose from different ‘kilometre plans’ depending on usage. Hence, the premium for the policy is limited only to the extent the vehicle is used or estimated to be used by the customer. 

o   Pay-How-You-Use (PHYU) Plan: Under this plan, the premium charged changes as per the driving behaviour score. A customer with good driving behaviour can avail of attractive discounts over the base premium of the policy. 

Emergency Medical Expense Cover ((EME): The EME add-on covers the occupants of the vehicle against medical expenses and daily hospital cash benefits in the event of an accident.

Equated Monthly Instalment (EMI) Protect: EMI cover add-on applies for cases where the vehicle is involved in an accident and covers the total liable EMI amount for which the Insured’s vehicle is under repair in a garage.

Club Royale Home Insurance: Exclusively curated for the elite base, to ensure complete protection pertaining to not just their residential units, but also their family, pet and appointed staff. This Product can be sold to homeowners with the feasibility of insuring multiple properties and locations in a single policy. This is a comprehensive product with a wide array of add-ons that can be customized as per requirement.

Voyager Travel Insurance: The new cover under this product, caters to the evolving needs such as self-driven holiday, cruise etc., and reflects the changing lifestyle and preferences of travellers. A single solution for group and corporate coverage, this product covers both domestic and overseas travel upto one year.

Liability Floater: Comprehensive liability coverage to SMEs/startups covering a host of liabilities including cyber, employee dishonesty, director, professional indemnity or commercial general liability amongst more.

Drone Insurance: Catering to drone manufacturers/operators or logistic companies and offering a comprehensive insurance against theft/ loss or damage caused to the drone including the payload.

Retail Cyber Liability Insurance: Offers protection to individuals and their families against any cyber fraud or digital risks that could result in financial or reputational loss.

ICICI Lombard as a company is driven by innovations and these aforementioned products are a strong testament of the same.  ICICI Lombard offers a variety of tech-enabled solutions, one example being its IL TakeCare App with over 2.4 Mn downloads, which allows users to purchase policies, handle claims, as well as renew them on the same platform, all of this while maintaining a seamless client experience. In addition to this, ICICI Lombard also has RIA (Responsive Intelligent Assistant), an NLP-enabled chatbot that will help upgrade the end-user experience.

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BharatPe expands footprint to 400 cities across India: Reaches all-time high of US$20 bn in annualized payments TPV

· Strengthens its reach in tier-3/4 towns and cities in the country

Chandigarh August 26, 2022: BharatPe, India’s leading fintech company for merchants, today announced that it has expanded its footprint to 400 towns and cities across India. The expansion is in line with the company’s commitment to driving financial inclusion across Bharat by enabling wider adoption of digital payments as well as addressing the credit gap for SMEs and offline retailers. The company also shared that it has recorded consistent growth in payments TPV and has recently achieved the milestone of US$ 20 bn in annualized TPV.

Last year, BharatPe had announced that it aims to scale its presence to 300 cities by March 2023. The company has aggressively expanded to tier-2, 3 and 4 towns and cities since then, as it believed in the opportunity that tier-2 and beyond towns and cities of the country had to offer. The company has rolled out its UPI QR payment acceptance service and loans to merchant partners in the new cities in the first phase. BharatPe also plans to top up these services with other fintech products like BharatSwipe in the second phase over the coming months.

Commenting on the company’s expansion, Nishant Jain, Chief Business Officer, BharatPe, said, “In line with our endeavour to drive financial inclusion amongst the unbanked and the underserved merchants of Bharat, BharatPe has been expanding its reach and taking UPI QR to tier-2, 3 and 4 towns and cities of the country since 2020. Last year, we had set a target of expanding our footprint to 300 cities by March 2023. I am happy to share that we have not only been able to achieve this milestone much ahead of time, but also surpassed it by a mile. This is a great motivation for a brand like ours that is built on the ethos of empowering MSMEs, offline merchants and kirana store owners of the country who we believe are the key growth drivers of the economy.”

Added Nishant, “We stay committed to building Digital India and are working aggressively to take digital payments to the merchants of Bharat. We are seeing steady growth in digital payments. Our annualised TPV in payments has reached US$ 20 billion recently, up from US$18.5 bn in June end. With the wide expansion across the length and breadth of Bharat, I am confident that we will witness continued growth and will easily surpass our target of US$ 30 bn in payments by March 2023. I am a firm believer of the fact that the next stage of growth for our business will be driven by tier-2, 3 and 4 towns and cities and hence, we will continue to focus on enabling credit for merchants in these areas as well as build new-age fintech products that can further empower their growth story.”

BharatPe has been on an exponential growth trajectory and recently closed one of its highest growth quarters. It facilitated over INR 3600 Cr in loans in Q1, FY23; recording a staggering growth of 112% over the last quarter (Q4, FY22). The company facilitated disbursals to over 1.2 lac merchants in Q1, FY23, up from 66,000 merchants in the last quarter of FY22. BharatPe also hit an all-time high of US$ 18.5 bn in annualized TPV in the quarter. The company also recorded consistent growth in its other business lines including card acceptance POS businesses (BharatSwipe) and its Investment Platform for merchants (growth of over 30% vs. the last quarter).

FIS to launch a Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) Virtual Lab across nations including India

Chandigarh, Aug. 27, 2022 – With real-time payments increasing, many countries must either modernize outdated payments infrastructure or build entirely new real-time payments networks to move money faster. In response, FIS^® (NYSE: FIS) has launched its new central infrastructure payment solution, RealNet™ Central, to help central banks transform their markets to digital-first, real-time payment economies.

Currently, 72 percent of world’s population has, or will soon have, access to instant payments, according to the2022 Worldpay from FIS Global Payments Report. Many markets are also replacing or renovating their established real-time services, especially those that repurposed their corporate real-time gross settlement (RTGS) services to cater for instant payments, such as Brazil, United Kingdom, Japan, South Africa and Mexico. Similarly, India and the U.S. are introducing additional competing services that will sit alongside the established schemes.

As this shift occurs, RealNet™ Central will accelerate real-time payments adoption by connecting a country’s businesses, consumers, financial institutions and government entities to real-time networks, both domestically and internationally. FIS will also help central banks launch Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC). Through FIS’s CBDC Virtual Lab – created in collaboration with M10 Networks (M10) and its high-performance digital money platform – FIS will support countries’ efforts to integrate CBDCs into their economy.

The CBDC Virtual Lab allows central banks, commercial banks and other financial participants to experiment with – and pilot – core concepts of issuance, transfer, redemption, offline payments, programmable payments, retail, wholesale and cross-border payments. FIS’ CBDC Virtual Lab is enterprise-grade technology that supports over one million transactions per second at less than a second latency.

“The global economy has rapidly shifted toward digital-first mindsets and methods. While the idea of making payments in real-time may sound simple, the reality of delivering on that promise is enormously sophisticated, especially when doing so across borders,” said Aman Cheema, Head of Global Real-Time Payments and CBDCs at FIS. “Our latest offering sets out to change that, bringing consumers, businesses, financial institutions and governments closer together in the payments ecosystem. The launch of this solution is the latest proof point of FIS’ commitment to invest in innovative technologies and solutions that advance how the world pays.”

FIS has been shortlisted as a finalist on the G20 TechSprint 2022 CBDC challenge to build a prototype using the FIS Virtual Lab to demonstrate secure, resilient and effective CBDC issuance, redemption and transfer, whilst maintaining financial stability and integration with the existing payments landscape.

For more information, visit the RealNet™ Central webpage.

BPCL bags 17 awards at Greentech Quality and Innovation Award 2022

Chandigarh, August 25, 2022: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a ‘Maharatna’ and a Fortune Global 500 Company received multiple awards in various categories at the ‘Greentech Quality & Innovation Awards’, ‘Greentech Environment & CSR Awards’ at a glittering ceremony held in Guwahati, competing against the best from the industry.

These awards acknowledge the outstanding achievements in the areas of Total Quality & Innovation and achieving sustainable goals that minimize carbon footprint, improves environmental protection and creates long-lasting changes for the benefit of the environment we work and live in.

Hon’ble Minister of Environment & Forests, Govt. of Assam Shri Chandra Mohan Patowary and Dr. Arup Kumar Misra, Chairman, Assam State Pollution Control Board presented these awards.

BPCL bagged seventeen prestigious awards in varied business unit categories including R&D Centre, Retail, Lubricants, Mumbai refinery, IS Department and Quality Control Cell, and in seventeen proposed categories, such as; four categories in Product Innovation, three categories in Technology Innovation, two categories in Environmental Innovation, five categories in Process Innovation, Potential Innovation, and Environment Champions.

The Awards honours the efforts of PSUs that have been key to the country’s Research and Development. The winners are decided based on their product and also based on their professional presentations. Both presented the jury with a high level of details, based on facts and figures and a very concrete insight into their product, company and business plans.

Greentech Quality & Innovation Awards have been instituted to encourage and motivate to boost improvements and implementation of processes in manufacturing processes / service delivery aligned to stake-holders. These are presented to the organization for their outstanding contribution in the field.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India enters festive season with new Shine Celebration Edition

Chandigarh, 27 August 2022: Ever since its introduction, Honda Shine has ruled the 125cc executive segment with its unmatched quality & performance. Delighting customers yet again in a new avatar, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India today launched the new Shine Celebration Edition.

One of the most appealing executive motorcycle, brand Shine, ever since its entry into Indian two-wheeler segment has witnessed a phenomenal rise in its popularity across both urbran & rural markets.

Speaking on the new edition launch, Mr. Atsushi Ogata, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India said, “As the nation warms up for the upcoming festive season, at HMSI we wanted to amplify this fervor further for our customers across regions. Renowned famously as one of the most appealing executive motorcycle, brand Shine continues to delight millions of Indians in their journey on two-wheels. I am confident that the all-new celebration edition avatar will light up the festival vibes and bring new delight for our customers.”

India’s most loved 125cc motorcycle in all new avatar

The new Shine Celebration edition brings a fresh new look with its captivating golden theme. Whether it’s thefresh stripes, golden wingmark emblem, or celebration edition logo on the tank top, the new edition brings more premium style along with numerous appealing value additions.

While the new saddle brown seat lends a mark of premium sophistication and pride to its rider, the matte axis grey metallic muffler cover, touch of gold on its side covers and an all new golden garnish on the front blends brilliantly with the celebratory spirit.

Price & Availability

Shine Celebration Edition is available in two new attractive colour options – Matte Steel Black Metallic andMatte Sangria Red Metallic and will be available in both drum & disc variant with an exciting starting price of INR 78,878 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

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Shri Lokesh Kumar Aggarwal has been appointed as the Director Finance of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), a Miniratna PSU under the Ministry of Tourism. He took charge of the office in his new role on August 24^th 2022. As Director (Finance) of ITDC, Shri Aggarwal will be a member of the board of directors and will report to the Managing Director (MD) of ITDC.

With career spanning close to three decades, Aggarwal specialises in financial resource mobilization from Domestic & Global sources, optimum utilization of funds, undertaking budgetary controls and taking investment decisions. Prior to this, he was the CFO/CGM (F) in Energy Efficiency Services Limited and led the overall finance function. He has also worked for 27 years in Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited and handled the major finance functions like Treasury & Banking, Strategic Planning & Budgetary Control and Corporate Accounts. He has played pivotal roles in improving management reporting, digitalisation and building SOPs for ensuring robust financial control.

Shri Aggarwal is a qualified Cost Accountant (ICAI), Company Secretary (ICSI) & L.L.B., besides holding a PG Diploma in Internal Audit from the Delhi School of Economics.

Season 6 of ‘Women Of Mettle’ Scholarship Programme concludes with a thrilling finale

~ Metallurgy student Priyanka Kumari from IIT Patna emerged as the winner; Electrical & Electronics student Sushma Venmunuri from IIEST Shibpur secured the first runner-up position; and Metallurgy student Vidhi Sachan from NIT Rourkela bagged the second runner-up slot ~

~ The programme received 1300+ registrations from across 55+ premier engineering institutes in India ~

~ Top 10 participants of ‘Women Of Mettle’ gets scholarship of ₹2 lakh each and an opportunity to join Tata Steel as Management Trainee Technical ~

Chandigarh, August 27, 2022: Tata Steel announces the winners of the 6th season of its pioneering initiative ‘Women Of Mettle’ scholarship programme, aimed to induct bright young women engineers into the manufacturing sector. The theme forthis season was ‘Technology and Sustainability’.

The Season 6 finale of ‘Women Of Mettle’, held on August 23, 2022, witnessed some of the brightest young female candidates from India’s premier engineering institutes display their ingenuity, acumen and spirited performance.

Priyanka Kumari, a Metallurgy Engineering student from IIT Patna, emerged as the winner of season 6. While Sushma Venmunuri, an Electrical & Electronics Engineering student from IIEST Shibpur, secured the first runner-up position, Vidhi Sachan, a Metallurgy Engineering student from NIT Rourkela, bagged the second runner-up slot.

Atrayee Sanyal, Vice President, Human Resource Management, Tata Steel, said: “Our scholarship programme ‘Women Of Mettle’ helps to position the manufacturing sector as a potential career option for women by attracting more women talent from across the country to join the sector. It is our endeavour to make Tata Steel an employer of choice for women engineers. This is also aligned with our continuous efforts towards developing women leaders to create a pool of diverse talent in the organisation at all levels. I congratulate all the winners and participants and wish them the very best for their careers ahead.”

Women Of Mettle is essentially an intellectual marathon where bright young minds embark on a journey to address diverse technical & cross-functional challenges and engineer solutions of tomorrow. Every year, this competition is conducted with much fanfare and female engineering students from premier institutes across the country look forward to participating and giving a head start to their career.

‘Women Of Mettle’, aimed at promoting gender diversity and inclusion in the manufacturing sector, was launched in 2017. Since its inception, the programme has been instrumental in identifying, grooming, and encouraging the female engineering talent in India’s manufacturing sector. The idea is to foster a collaborative environment among students, academia, and the corporate sector to provide young women in India with unique and aspiring career opportunities.

As part of the programme, participants are subjected to a rigorous selection procedure that includes a variety of technical hurdles. The candidates work on real life technical challenges and top 10 shortlists work and present their solutions to the esteemed Jury at the grand finale of the competition. Winners are selected based on the presentation, feasibility, and quality of the proposed solutions. The top 10 candidates get a scholarship of ₹2,00,000 each in addition to an opportunity to pursue a career at Tata Steel. They can join Tata Steel as a Technical Intern, and subsequently receive a Pre-Placement Offer (PPO). The candidates, ranked 11-30, are also given an opportunity for summer internship in the third year of their engineering course.

Titan pays an ode to the relentless contribution of The Indian Armed Forces

~ launches Titan Shaurya initiative~

Chandigarh, 27^th August 2022: On the occasion of 75 years of Independence and with the objective of saluting our nation’s heroes, Titan Company rolls out ‘Titan Shaurya’ initiative in recognition of the selfless service and sacrifice of The Indian Armed Forces.

Titan’s pan-India initiative is designed with an objective to make Titan products across all brand categories, accessible to The Indian Armed Forces at special offers reserved exclusively for all serving and Retired Armed Forces including their dependants. With an extensive retail footprint of over 2000 stores across the country, The Armed Forces will have a complete access to 10000+ products from the House of Titan across brands with products ranging from watches, jewellery, and eyewear to perfume and Indian dress wear. To avail the offer, the personnel or their dependants need to furnish the original CSD Smart Card at the time of purchase across any Titan retail outlet in the country.

Titan also took the opportunity to unveil the first look of special edition watches inspired by our armed forces. This exclusive collection will be launched by March 2023 and will be available across our online and on-ground retail stores in India.

Honouring the occasion, Air Marshal K Anantharaman VSM, Indian Air Force said, “As India completes 75 Years of Independence, we are celebrating Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. This pioneering effort by Titan to launch “Titan Shaurya” is indeed commendable. We, in the Indian Air Force, share the same passion for excellence as is the prime value of Titan Company. It is my proud privilege to be present here and representing Armed Forces.”

Speaking on the launch, Mr. C K Venkataraman, MD, Titan Company Limited shared his thoughts, “It’s a moment of great pride for Titan to be associated with the Indian Armed Forces. This Independence Day, we aim to celebrate oneness through an acknowledgement of the sacrifices that they make every day. Just like the parent brand, Titan is committed to recognize The Armed Forces’ relentless services, selfless sacrifices to preserve the honour of our Nation by serving them with products that are truly ‘Made in India’. We believe that time is the only way to bring discipline in our lives and we sincerely hope we can bring a smile to every member of The Indian Armed forces through this association and express our heartfelt gratitude in a small way.”

itel brings innovation of inbuilt chatting and music app in its 4G magic X series

-Launches dual 4G VoLTE flagship Magic X and Magic X Play

–The Magic X series supports 12 different Indian languages to cater to India’s diverse consumer base

Chandigarh, August 27 2022: itel the leading mobile brand for Bharat brought another big innovation to the feature phone market in India with the launch of its Magic X series. Staying committed to fuelling the aspiration of Bharat, itel today announced the launch of Magic X Play and Magic X. These new-age feature phones come with the inbuilt chatting application LetsChat and music app Boomplay with dual 4G VoLTE. These phones are available at a compelling price point of INR 2099 and INR 2299 respectively.

Unlike any other feature phone, itel users will be able to make friends across the globe and even create chat groups through its LetsChat application. itel’s feature phones are amongst the pioneer brands in India that provide options like voice messages for the consumers to chat freely with voice notes and help them to stay connected with their family and loved ones using itel devices.

Another path-breaking feature of Magic X Series is the Music app Boom play. When the Industry norm for the user is to depend on FM Radio or preloaded songs in memory for music, Magic X makes it possible for the users to listen to online music, which is a big advantage in the entertainment-starved segment. The in-built Boomplay allows the users to enjoy 74 million plus songs across the globe in different genres like Movies, Bhakti etc.

While Magic X Play is power packed with 4G VoLTE technology and boasts a 1.77-inch 3D curved display, Magic X has a compact ultra slim design with 2.4-inch 3D curved QVGA display and smart LED alert. Both phones have an inbuilt wireless FM radio, LED torch and KingVoice assistance. The Magic X series is one of the few feature phones in India that not only provides features similar to a smartphone but also assures high-speed connectivity with 4G technology for consumers to always stay connected and enjoy activities online on the go.

itel has also ensured a powerful battery backup in both phones. Magic X Play has a 1900mAh battery and the compact Magic X flaunts of 1200 mAh battery backup. Through the launch of the Magic X series, itel has once again showcased its prowess in innovation building feature phones that are equivalent to any smartphone and are pocket-friendly.

Commenting on the launch, CEO, itel India, Mr Arijeet Talapatra, said, “In the era of Smartphones, feature phones are still relevant to certain user segments, especially those at the bottom of the pyramid, rural users, the ones who find it easy to use and also who want to keep feature phones as their secondary device. Being the No 1 Feature phone brand with over 25% market share, itel continues its vision of empowering the aspirational Bharat with its cutting-edge technology and innovations. itel keep on working towards bringing the best for this segment and the launch of the Magic X series is a testimony to that. Magic X series has been curated for our consumers who are looking for user-friendly and premium 4G devices for their digital needs. “

Both the phones feature a VGA rear camera and come with dual sim support. Catering to India’s diverse population, the feature phones supports 12 different languages: English, Hindi, Gujarati, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, Bengali, Oriya, Assamese and Urdu.

While Magic X Play will be available in colour variants: Midnight Black and Mint Green, Magic X will come in Midnight Black and Pearl White. Both the phones will be available online and offline at prominent retail stores. While Magic X Play will be available in colour variants: Midnight Black and Mint Green, Magic X will come in Midnight Black and Pearl White. Both the phones will be available online and offline at prominent retail stores.

	Magic X Play	Magic X
Memory	RAM + ROM: 48MB + 128MB, expandable upto 64GB Phonebook: 2000 (with Photo/icon) SMS + MMS: 500 + 250	RAM + ROM: 48MB+128MB, expandable upto 64GB Phonebook: 2000 (with Photo/icon) SMS+MMS: 500 + 250
Applications	Boomplay LetsChat KingVoice	Boomplay LetsChat KingVoice
Hardware	Chipset: T107 Dimension: 117*50.1*14.1mm Sim Slot: 2 Dual Standby Torch: Big LED	Chipset: T107 Dimension: 128.8*53*11.7mm Sim Slot: 2 Dual Standby Torch: Flash LED
Battery	Capacity: 1900mAh Type: Li-ion	Capacity: 1200mAh Type: Li-ion
Connectivity	4G VoLTE Wireless FM Bluetooth 4.2 3.5mm Earphone Jack	4G VoLTE Wireless FM Bluetooth 4.2 3.5mm Earphone Jack
Screen	Size: 1.77 inches Resolution: 160×128 pixels Resolution Type: QQVGA Pixel Density: 116 PPI Technology: TN	Size: 2.4 inches Resolution: 240×320 pixels Resolution Type: QVGA Pixel Density: 167 PPI Technology: TN
Color	Midnight Black, Mint Green	Midnight Black, Pearl White

Mahindra Logistics establishes strong presence in Grocery vertical

~ Launches its eleventh fulfilment centre in the country ~

~ Enables quick commerce for its customers ~

~ Partners with leading e-commerce players ~

Chandigarh, 26 August 2022: Mahindra Logistics Ltd. (MLL), one of India’s large 3PL solutions providers, which forayed into end-to-end services for its B2C grocery business last year, has been able to establish a very strong presence in the country. The company today announced the launch of its latest fulfilment centre, its eleventh in the country and third in the city of Hyderabad. The new fulfilment centre will specifically enable quick commerce in the grocery segment with technology at its backbone in driving efficiency.

Within a short period, MLL has established its operational capability across India with its end-to-end services of fulfilment centres, milk-run transportation, micro-fulfilment centres (dark stores) and last mile delivery. The network which the company built for this segment is the best in class and is equipped to fulfil large volumes. These fulfilment centres are spread across 5 cities (Bangalore, Vizag, Vijayawada, Hyderabad, and Kolkata) and are currently serving more than 6 lakh units and 15000+ stores per day.

Commenting on this expansion, Mr. Rampraveen Swaminathan, Managing Director and CEO of Mahindra Logistics, said, “With changing consumer demand patterns, we are expanding our network to continually enhance our reach. Essential service is a rapidly growing category, and we are looking at bringing our facilities to cities where these services are not accessible. We believe in delivering a consistent customer experience in the B2C space through customized, technology-driven solutions. These operations also synergise last mile operations through “Whizzard”, our last-mile logistics brand we acquired in April this year.

MLL through these B2C fulfilment centres is creating employment for 1500+ people. MLL has been steadfast in its efforts to be more inclusive. The company has actively employed differently abled persons and employees from the LGBTQ+ community, at its warehouses across the country. Similarly, MLL is bridging the gender diversity gap by hiring more women from various backgrounds and experiences.

TVS Motor Company announces investment in Formula 1 Driver NarainKarthikeyan’sstart-up“DriveX”

· Investments will enable DriveX to further scale up offerings in the pre-owned two- wheel space in India

Chandigarh, August 25, 2022: TVS Motor Company, one of the leading manufacturers of two-wheelers and three-wheelers globally, today announced investment in Narain Karthikeyan’s start-up “DriveX” (NKars Mobility Millennial Solutions Private Limited), a pre-owned two-wheeler platform. TVS Motor sees a strong potential in the pre-owned two-wheeler market, which is witnessing a structural shift from theunorganized to the organized sector. The pre-owned two-wheeler market is growing rapidlyand has garnered high levels of investor and customer interest in recent years, driven by digitization and emergence of start-ups. This investment in DriveX is aimed at enabling innovative solutions to lead thistransformation.

Founded by India’s first Formula 1 ace racing driver Narain Karthikeyan, DriveX is a fully integrated model present across the pre-owned two-wheeler vehicle value chain. This includes all core areas includingprocurement, refurbishment, and retailing ofmulti-brand pre-owned two-wheelers.Incorporated in April 2020, DriveX started off as a two-wheeler subscription platform, providing affordable and flexible mobility solutions and has expanded to five cities in ashort span of time.

Speaking on the occasion, Narain Karthikeyan,Founder and CEO of DriveX said, “The pre-ownedtwo- wheeler vehicle market is changing rapidly today. DriveX is a digital first business, serving all brands with unique analytics-led capabilities acrossthe value chains. We have also been successful atlaunching new business models, including the subscription model in the pre-owned two-wheelersegment. In the coming years, DriveX will aim tostrengthen its presence across India, followed byother geographies in due course. With this investment from TVS Motor Company, we are confident ofexpanding the DriveX vision, and delivering a pre-owned two-wheeler business that exceeds customerexpectations.”

Announcing the investment, Sudarshan Venu, Managing Director, TVS Motor Company, said, “Thepre-owned two-wheeler market is largely unorganized today. It is delightful to see what DriveX has been able to create and deliver in short time. Narain and his team have built a unique platform that can scaleup quickly. DriveX has a vision to bring a change inthis segment by building trust, assurance, andtransparency through end-to-end, high-qualityproducts and customer experience throughinnovative solutions. We are confident of DriveXability to deliver on this vision.”

Spice Money strengthens leadership team by elevating two leaders to executive roles

Appoints Kuldeep Pawar as CMO & Atul Tiwari as CHRO

Chandigarh, August 24, 2022: Spice Money, India’s leading rural fintech, is gearing up to achieve its goal of becoming the country’s largest rural fintech player by further reinforcing its leadership team. The company has elevated two of its senior leaders into executive roles. Kuldeep Pawar, who was previously the Head of Marketing has been promoted to Chief Marketing Officer, where he will support the overall strategic objectives of Spice Money by developing comprehensive marketing and communication strategies. Atul Tiwari, who has been the Head of HR at the organisation, has now been promoted as Chief Human Resources Officer. He will focus on implementing innovative talent movement processes and further build a diverse workforce & culture at Spice Money.Kuldeep, Atul along with the robust leadership team will drive Spice Money’s next round of growth and further strengthen the company’s presence in the hinterlands of India.

Kuldeep Pawar has 15 years of experience in classic and modern marketing communications across fintech brands, retail chains, telecom giants and OEM brands. Having worked with brands like Niyo, Jio, Quickheal & Vodafone, his expertise lies in honing brands and their communication strategies so that the right brand message is communicated to the audience. He is extremely passionate about Disruptive Marketing and creating a lasting customer culture.

Atul Tiwari has over 15 years of qualitative experience across brands like Hexaware, IBM, PeopleStrong, Puma Energy, OYO, PwC and many more diasporas. Simplifying work-life through HR Technology, Management Consulting, leadership development, Strategy Planning across industry verticals is what drives him.

Sanjeev Kumar, Co-Founder & CEO of Spice Money,said, “At Spice Money, our vision is to bridge the rural urban divide by digitally and financially empowering the unbanked and underbanked population living in the remotest corners of India. Our strong leadership has helped us to step closer towards our vision and bring the underserved rural population under the ambit of the formal banking sector. I am delighted to have Kuldeep and Atul, two of our most accomplished leaders, to join the executive team. I am confident that with their continued leadership, as well as their in-depth knowledge and expertise, we will continue to drive innovation for the last mile and bolster our leadership position in the rural fintech industry,”.

Spice Money has scaled exponentially in the past year, with its Adhikari (merchants / nanopreneurs) network nearly doubling to become 10, 00,000 strong and its micro-ATM network crossing over a lakh. The company has witnessed a 4X growth in the last two years in terms of transaction volumes, network growth, customer GTV, and service-fee revenue. The company increased its service-fee revenue by 80% to Rs 341 crore in FY22 from Rs 190 crore in FY21. Spice Money has also expanded its business to the rural travel sector with the launch of Travel Union, India’s first B2B rural travel-tech platform that addresses the key challenges faced by rural travel agents and their customers.

Dreamfolks Services Limited raises Rs. 252.95 crore from 18 anchor investors at the upper price band of Rs. 326 per equity share · Dreamfolks Services Limited allocates 77,59,066 equity shares at the upper price band of Rs. 326 per share

· Non-anchor offer to open on Wednesday, August 24^th, 2022 to Friday, August 26^th, 2022

Chandigarh, August 24, 2022: Dreamfolks Services Limited (“the Company”) hasallotted 77,59,066 equity shares to 18 anchor investors and raised Rs. 252.94 crore ahead of the Company’s proposed IPO at the upper price band of Rs. 326 per share.

The anchor allocation as follows:

Sr. No.	Name of Anchor Investor	No. of Equity Shares Allocated	% of Anchor Investor Portion	Allocation Price (₹ Per Equity Share)	Total Amount Allocated (₹)
1	Smallcap World Fund, Inc	22,08,598	28.46%	326.00	72,00,02,948
2	Aditya Birla Sunlife Trustee Private Limited A/C Aditya Birla Sun Life Small Cap Fund	6,13,502	7.91%	326.00	20,00,01,652
3	Aditya Birla Sunlife Trustee Private Limited A/C Aditya Birla Sun Life Multicap Fund	6,13,456	7.91%	326.00	19,99,86,656
4	Invesco India Multicap Fund	6,13,272	7.90%	326.00	19,99,26,672
5	Sundaram Mutual Fund A/C Sundaram Services Fund	6,13,272	7.90%	326.00	19,99,26,672
6	Abakkus Growth Fund – 2	3,68,138	4.74%	326.00	12,00,12,988
7	Kuber India Fund	3,68,138	4.74%	326.00	12,00,12,988
8	Malabar India Fund	3,68,138	4.74%	326.00	12,00,12,988
9	Mirae Asset India Sector Leader Equity Fund	3,68,138	4.74%	326.00	12,00,12,988
10	Quant Mutual Fund A/C Quant Value Fund	2,43,724	3.14%	326.00	7,94,54,024
11	Saint Capital Fund	2,30,138	2.97%	326.00	7,50,24,988
12	Elara India Opportunities Fund Limited	2,30,092	2.97%	326.00	7,50,09,992
13	Matthews Asia Funds Asia Small Companies Fund	1,53,410	1.98%	326.00	5,00,11,660
14	PNB Metlife India Insurance Company Limited	1,53,410	1.98%	326.00	5,00,11,660
15	Societe Generale – ODI	1,53,410	1.98%	326.00	5,00,11,660
16	Vikasa India EIF I Fund	1,53,410	1.98%	326.00	5,00,11,660
17	Segantii India Mauritius	1,53,410	1.98%	326.00	5,00,11,660
18	BNP Paribas Arbitrage – ODI	1,53,410	1.98%	326.00	5,00,11,660
	Total	77,59,066	100.00%		2,52,94,55,516

The IPO consists of an offer of Equity Shares by way of an Offer for Sale of Up to 17,242,368 Equity Shares by the promoter selling shareholders. The Offer for Sale comprises upto 6,531,200 Equity Shares by Mukesh Yadav, upto 6,531,200 Equity Shares by Dinesh Nagpal and upto 4,179,968 Equity Shares by Liberatha Peter Kallat.

The Price Band for the Offer has been fixed at ₹ 308 to ₹ 326 per Equity Share. Bids can be made for a minimum of 46 Equity Shares and in multiples of 46 Equity Shares thereafter.

Equirus Capital Private Limited and Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors Limited are the Book Running Lead Managers (“BRLMs”) to the Offer.

Mahindra Insurance Brokers and Mad About Wheels collaborate to jointly provide Motor insurance solution to MAW clients

· Unique distribution partnership allowing MaW to use MIBL’s insurance broking solutions

· India’s fastest and easiest process of PoSPs (Point of sale person) through MIBL’s Sajhedaari initiative

· Association to provide convenience and profitability to MAW digital dealership

Chandigarh August 24, 2022: Mahindra Insurance Brokers Limited (MIBL), a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services (Mahindra Finance), today announced its partnership with Mad About Wheels (MaW) – India’s first brand agnostic electric mobility & automotive solutions provider. Through this strategic partnership, MaW dealers who have been onboarded, will now be able to provide comprehensive motor insurance products to customers buying electric two and three-wheeler vehicles.

The partnership will give MaW dealers selling electric 2-wheeler & 3-wheeler vehicles, an access to various insurance products offered by MIBL’s insurance partners. The customers can effectively compare and select an insurance cover that meets their individual and specific requirements.

Vedanarayanan Seshadri, MD & Principal Officer, MIBL said, “This unique distribution partnership will enable MaW dealer-partners to utilize MIBL’s platform to provide insurance products to the emerging and ever evolving EV industry and the growing necessity day by day. Given the rapid growth of two and three-wheeler fleets in India this partnership will facilitate insurance through MAW dealer partners with a wide reach.”

Amresh Khar, Co-Founder of Mad About Wheelsadded, “The MIBL association will help us increase our reach into this growing sector & on-board new age dealers as well as OEM brands to build more confidence into the EV business. I am sure that the EV industry at large will be the benefactors of this kind of a unique partnership. Our Flagship product of Extended Warranties is running successfully, where we have already crossed 20,000 thousand customers”.

The association has been formed keeping in mind the emerging and ever evolving EV industry and the necessity of insurance for such products

Govt. of Nagaland and JK Trust sign MoU to launch Raymond Skill training program backed by NABARD & Silver Spark Apparel to boost employability

Chandigarh, 24^th August 2022: JK Trust, a social initiative of Raymond, together with its supporting partners, signed a MoU with the Government of Nagaland to launch an “Employment Linked Skill Training Program” in Kohima during CSR Conclave. The program is one of its kind and is aimed at providing employment opportunities to the youth of Nagaland in garment industries. The MoU was signed in the presence of the Hon’ble Finance Minister of India, Smt. Nirmala Sitaraman and Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri. Neiphiu Rio. The project is supported by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), Silver Spark Apparel Limited (Raymond Group) and Directorate of Technical Education under the Government of Nagaland.

India has a demographic dividend advantage and if this potential is tapped, the country will witness good economic growth. Skill development will play a major role in this. Around 12.6 million people are employed in garment industries and this number is expected to increase to 15.8 million by the end of 2022 (as per an NSDC report).

Shri. Medo Yhokha, Hon’ble Advisor to CM Nagaland said; “Our youth has immense potential and with the right opportunities they can achieve newer milestones. I appreciate and welcome the efforts by JK Trust and Raymond for starting the skills training program.”

Shri. Shaji KV, Dy. Managing Director, NABARD said; “NABARD has been working actively to support the rural economy through different schemes and initiatives. The North-East has untapped potential and we are happy to support JK Trust for implementing the Employment Linked Skill Training Program. We are hopeful that this will usher in newer opportunities for economic and social development of the state.”

Shri. Ram Bhatnagar, CEO of JK Trust, said, “As one of the most relatable household names when it comes to home-grown garment brands, Raymond aims to make a difference in the industry by providing skills to the future leaders of the same industry. This would boost the garment industry’s growth in Nagaland, provide employability to the youth of Nagaland and set up Nagaland as a potential base for industrial growth.”

Nagaland is one of the best educated states in India and the youth here have the potential to contribute to socio-economic development, if provided with the right opportunity. The state has minimal industries and the lack of skilled workforce is one of the major challenges.

The project will bridge the existing gap between skill training imparted and skillsets required by industries. The project will also pave the way for garment industries to set up their units in the state with increased availability of skilled workforce.

The central hub is located in Government Polytechnic, Kohima, and is equipped with advanced machinery that is used by garmenting industries. The project will be implemented for five years and 1,080 trainees will be trained and provided employment opportunities in Silver Spark Apparel Limited, Bengaluru. The centre will be launched in the second week of September’22. The youth of Nagaland are invited to become a part of this initiative and leverage new opportunities for themselves as well the state. The program will serve as a model for ushering in holistic development at grass root level for other North Eastern states.

10 million apprentices in 10 years: An achievable reality

~ TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship and the JustJobs Network highlight India’s journey to scale up to 10 million apprentices in 10 years in the India Employability Report, listing 12 key reforms for India to achieve this dream~

Chandigarh, 23^rd August, 2022: TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, a leading conglomerate revolutionizing employability in India, and the JustJobs Network, a leading labour market research organization, today launch a one of a kind detailed ‘India Employability Report’. The report ‘Reimagining Employability for the 21st-century – 10 Million Apprentices in 10 Years’, is a detailed deep dive into the overall employability ecosystem in India, analyzing the gaps in education and skilling and highlighting a 12-point agenda for India to scale its apprenticeships.

Setting up the premise, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship & JustJobs Network’s analysis reiterates that Indian youth do not have proper exposure to the world of work when they are learning. Their education and skills are not adequately aligned with what industry requires. Moreover, as the world of work is changing, more employers are keen to hire candidates with the some prior work experience. In this context, apprenticeships have played a crucial role in bridging this gap, transforming the country’s skills pedagogy, enhancing youth employability, and enabling candidates to find right opportunities and assisting organizations to access apprentices.

Sharing her views, Ms Rituparna Chakraborty, Co-Founder & Executive Director, TeamLease Services, said, “India has the largest heterogeneous youth cohort of 371 million, with close to 3.5% youth joining the workforce every year. We are also a country with rising unemployment and underemployment concerns. Unemployment rate in India went from 2.3% in 2009 to 5.8% in 2018 and youth unemployment rate is at 12.9%. Incidentally, from those who are unemployed, 16% are graduate degree holders and over 14% are post graduate degree students. All of this indicates a significant mismatch between what the world of work needs and what our youth knows. Providing quality education, training and employment to our massive youth cohort is an adventurous task. Furthermore, with social economic challenges of the candidates coupled with an education system which is more focused on the supply front over learning outcomes, the journey becomes even more challenging. Apprenticeships have emerged as an enterprising and promising solution which is truly augmenting the employability landscape in India. However with our current base of mere 500,000 apprentices, we have barely reached our true potential”.

“There is a widening chasm between education, training, and employment in India. Despite the complex web of government schemes and non-profit, for-profit, and public institutions that provide training, the incidence of formal training remains low at less than 4%. The supply-side focus of training does not align with the demands of the job market. Our large and growing youth population needs good jobs to harness their productive potential, but businesses also need a workforce that is equipped to meet the growing and changing demands of markets. Apprenticeships can help bridge these gaps, resulting in better outcomes for youth, but also good return on investment for employers by significantly reducing the cost of hiring, imparting need-based skills, and expanding the pool of potential hires”, added Ms Sabina Dewan, President & Executive Director, JustJobs Network.

The report further states that to arrest the persisting challenges of youth unemployment and underemployment, scaling the apprentices pool is the need of the hour. To reimagine employability in the post 21^st century era, and to scale apprenticeships, a 12-point reform agenda, based on five design principles that will enable – (1) Learning while earning, (2) Learning by doing, (3) Learning with flexibility, (4) Learning with modularity, and (5) Learning with signalling value, is required.

er

India currently has only 500,000 apprentices, which constitutes 0.11% of the pool of apprentices worldwide. With these reforms, we will not only ramp up our apprenticeship adoption, but we will also be get closer to what is already happening in Europe, China, Japan – countries that have pioneered apprenticeships over the decade.

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Titan Eye+ launches Titan Ultima: the best in class Progressive Lens

~The customizable lens ensures high image stability with fine aesthetics~

Chandigarh, 23 August 2022: Titan Eye+ introduces its best-in-class progressive lens “Titan Ultima” which is engineered to precision. The much-trusted brand, known for fusing expertise, utility, and design in all of its products, launched its latest innovation in the lens category after fog-free, ClearSight, and Neo-Progressive lenses. Titan Ultima Progressive Lenses provide a clear and stable vision for active presbyopes, even when they are engaged in highly dynamic activities.

The core of any prescription eyewear is the sharpness of vision provided by the lens but unfortunately, even the most seasoned consumer misses it. With expertise and empathy as the core ethos of Titan Eye+, the brand has been constantly re-imaging lenses that help consumers with the perfect vision. Titan Ultima is a made-in-India innovation manufactured at the Titan Lens Lab in Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru,that offers ultimate comfort and can be personalized to the wearer’s versatile lifestyle.

Introducing the advanced progressive lens Mr. Saumen Bhaumik, CEO, EyeCare Division, Titan Company Limited adds, “At Titan Eye+, everything that we do, whether product innovation or optometry embodies the spirit that we are the expert who genuinely cares for our customers. Titan Ultima our “most progressive” progressive lens thus far is another demonstration of this very commitment to bring the best of innovation & tech for superlative vision quality. Ultima comes power-packed with three technologies resulting in high image stability by reducing distortions, flatter, and thinner lenses and also personalized as per the wearer’s lifestyle. A made-in-India product – these lenses come as a blessing for seasoned progressive users by providing an exceptional solution that enables them to have clear vision at all distances.”

IndusInd Bank launches Digital Banking Units to commemorate 75th Year of Independence

· Two Digital Banking Units (DBUs) have been launched, one each in Punjab and Tamil Nadu

· DBUs offer various banking services through dedicated Digital Experience zones

· The DBUs has been launched in line with the recent advisory released by RBI

Chandigarh, August 24, 2022: IndusInd Bank has launched two Digital Banking Units (DBUs) at Jalandhar (Punjab), and Chengalpattu (Tamil Nadu) to commemorate the 75th Year of India’s Independence. This announcement is in line with the recent Digital Banking Unit advisory, to accelerate and widen the reach of digital banking services in the country.

The DBUs will offer a gamut of Digital, Do It Yourself (DIY) journeys. This includes the instant opening of Savings & Current Accounts, Term Deposits, instant processing of Personal and Business loans, KYC updates, DIY Credit Card journeys, internet banking, and account statement generation. Customers will also be able to deposit and withdraw cash through a Cash Recycler. To assist the customers in their DIY journeys, banking experts will be available during standard banking hours. These experts will also guide, support, and educate the customers. Certain services like cash withdrawal/ deposit and internet banking will also be available 24×7 for the convenience of customers.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Soumitra Sen, Head – Consumer Bank, IndusInd Bank said,

‘’We are delighted to inaugurate Digital Banking Units in Jalandhar (Punjab) and Chengalpattu (Tamil Nadu), two promising markets for the Bank. The mandate is in line with the Bank’s endeavour to promote the adoption of digital banking services throughout the length and breadth of the country for better efficiency and turnaround. As we expand into deeper geographies to serve the local populace, we look forward to bringing a whole new world of digital banking convenience and flexibility to our customers.”

On the overall digital commitment of the Bank, Ms. Charu S. Mathur, Head – Digital Banking & Strategy (Existing Business), IndusInd Bank added, “We are committed towards increasing digital banking adoption. With the Bank’s Digital 2.0 strategy, our digital-only offerings across various lines of businesses have seen significant growth and traction and we are happy to extend our full stack digital capabilities in Digital Banking Units (DBUs) to drive customer awareness and adoption.”

Godrej Locks & Architectural Fittings and Systems Aspires for 2500 Crs Revenue by FY’27

· Aims to grow 2X in next five years

· Introduces Neu-Lift Bed Fittings and HIKIDO wardrobe fittings in the space of Architectural Fittings and Systems

Chandigarh, 23 August 2022: The iconic brand Godrej Locks & Architectural Fittings and Systems (GLAFS), a business unit of Godrej & Boyce, the flagship company of Godrej Group, also completed 125 years this year. The Godrej brand embarked on the journey with locks and today that legacy is being carried forward with a focus and investment towards innovations in technology and design.

A pioneer in product innovation, Godrej locks caters to the Indian market with 200+ number of products. The Brand has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the fundamental concept of a locking device and plans to grow twice as large in five years; to Rs 2500 crore by FY’27. The company’s present business revenue is 900 Cr, and is projecting a revenue of 1000 Cr for the fiscal year 2023. Driven by significant increase in demand for digital locks, the brand is poised for the imminent growth. To cater to this demand, the brand also introduced ‘Catus’ range of Digital Door Locks which are not just technologically superior, but also offer great value for money. To further support revenue growth, the brand will invest in market expansion, deepen market penetration and, also focus on brand promotion.

The company aims to be among the top three brands in the architectural fittings and systems industry in next three years. The architectural fittings category is a 10,000 to 12,000 crores market. The company is now concentrating on broadening its selection in the architectural fittings sector, and aims to cross INR 400 Cr in FY23 with advance design solutions that are tailored for the Indian household. GLAFS also introduced Neu-Lift Bed Fittings and HIKIDO wardrobe fittings, which introduce futuristic design and customizable solutions. Additionally, the brand also offers Smart Kitchen Drawers and Organizers (SKIDO), a cutting-edge line of organizers, drawers, corner solutions, under-sink solutions, and grain storage for Indian homes.

Commenting on the aggressive growth plan in India, Mr. Shyam Motwani, Business Head, Godrej Locks & Architectural Fittings and Systems said, “The legacy brand Godrej Locks has consistently placed emphasis on enhancing customer satisfaction which has always led to opportunities in expanding markets. In our 125th year, we are happy to announce that we not only plan to expand our digital locks business but are also growing our architectural fittings vertical. Modern design and technology play a very important role for us and that is where we will be focusing our efforts across categories. We plan to cross INR 400 Crs in the Architectural Fittings and Systems business, and overall revenue of 1000 Cr in FY’23, translating into a growth of over two times within the next 5 years.”

The brand plays a crucial role in this market by fostering the welfare of the Architects and Interior Designers (AID) community. GLAFS announced the ‘Godrej Value Co-creators Club’ (GVCC), a first-of-its-kind initiative for the AID community across India.

Godrej Locks currently exports to 24 countries across Asia, Africa, USA, and the Middle East. It provides locking solutions in international markets. The company expects its share from the overseas market to increase and is also planning to enter the architectural hardware and kitchen systems segment in these markets.

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Sunstone raises $35M in Series C Funding led by WestBridge Capital

The startup plans to expand into 100+ cities in the next two years.

Chandigarh, 24 August 2022: Sunstone, one of India’s leading higher education startup, has raised $35 million in Series C funding led by WestBridge Capital, which also saw participation from Alteria Capital. The company with presence across 35+ cities in 40+ institutions is building capacities to expand into 100 cities across the country.

Founded by Ashish Munjal and Piyush Nangru in the year 2019, Sunstone had raised $28 million in Series B in October 2021. As per the company’s founder Ashish Munjal, the fresh capital will be used to expand into new programmes, with a key focus on undergraduate tech programs.

Commenting on the funding, Ashish Munjal, Co-founder and CEO, Sunstone said, “The Indian higher education system is at the brink of a long overdue transformation. Sunstone is well positioned to enable this change and impact the lives of millions of students. Over the years, we have made significant strides in the direction but still have a long way to go as the market opportunity and problem we’re trying to solve for, is very large.”

Starting with post graduate management education, Sunstone ventured into undergraduate programs in 2022 for the first time, registering a staggering 10X growth in the past two years.

Reiterating their belief in Sunstone’s vision, Sandeep Singhal, Managing Partner, WestBridge Capital said, “Over the last year, we have seen Sunstone grow and continue to upgrade the quality of education provided to every student. Seeing the ever increasing demand and its potential to be a major disruptor, we are excited to double down our investment to support its mission of transforming the higher education sector in India.”

Established with a vision to transform higher education space, Sunstone strives to introduce accountability, accessibility and quality education for all. By making education outcome focused and industry relevant, Sunstone aims to become the de-facto choice for every student who wishes to pursue a meaningful education.

Shri Sukhmal Jain takes over as Director (Marketing) of Bharat Petroleum

Chandigarh, August 24, 2022: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, India’s ‘best performing’ Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking and the second largest energy PSU in India has today announced the appointment of Shri Sukhmal Jain as Director (Marketing).

Prior to his elevation to the board, Shri Jain was the Executive Director Incharge (Marketing Corporate) in the Corporate Office and before that the head of Gas Business Unit.

With graduation degree in Mechanical Engineering from Delhi College of Engineering and MBA from SP Jain Institute of Management & Research, he has held several leadership positions in Retail, LPG and Gas verticals in his 35 years with the company.

In his illustrious career of over three decades, he has been actively involved in industry defining initiatives, like Give it Up campaign and Pradhan Mantri Ujjawala Yojana, in LPG Business, and has successfully navigated the Strategy and Loyalty Programs in Retail Business.

Shri Sukhmal Jain is also the Chairman of Goa Natural Gas Pvt. Ltd (GNGPL). Earlier he was the Chairman of Central UP Gas Ltd (CUGL) and Director on the board of Bharat Gas Resources Limited (BGRL), a wholly owned subsidiary of BPCL which has recently merged with BPCL.

Under his leadership Gas BU played an increasingly important role in supporting the Government’s aim of developing India as a gas-based economy, which augurs widespread economic prosperity, while also reducing the nation’s dependence on oil imports and contributing to reduction in carbon emissions.

PNB MetLife announces the launch of Junior Badminton Championship 2022

The 6^th edition of the championship will be held in 12 cities for age groups ranging from 7 – 17 years helping to create Badminton stars of tomorrow

Chandigarh, August 22, 2022: PNB MetLife, one of India’s leading life insurers, today announced the launch of PNB MetLife Junior Badminton Championship 2022 (JBC), to be held in 12 states across India under the banner of 12 State Badminton Associations. This marks the 6^th edition year of PNB MetLife’s sponsorship since it launched this successful sporting event in 2015 to build the sport for young talent.

On the launch of JBC 2022, P.V. Sindhu, two-time Olympic Medallist and brand ambassador of PNB MetLife, said, “PNB MetLife’s Junior Badminton Championship is a great platform for the young budding Badminton talent in India. I’m delighted to be associated with a brand that lays emphasis on harnessing the potential of young sports enthusiasts who are poised to become the Badminton stars of tomorrow.”

The 6^th season of PNB MetLife Junior Badminton Championship (JBC) will be conducted in 12 cities, including Mumbai, Bangalore, Surat, Lucknow, Ranchi, Indore, Chandigarh, Thrissur, Hyderabad, Bhubaneshwar, Guwahati, and Delhi. All Badminton players and aspirants in these 12 cities between the ages of 7 and 17 are eligible to compete in PNB MetLife JBC 2022. The different categories include Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, Under 15, and Under 17. The match format will be singles and each participant can play in a maximum of two categories, as long as the maximum age limit is upheld. The State Winners will be invited to New Delhi for an awards ceremony with P.V Sindhu, two-time Olympic Medallist and PNB MetLife Brand Ambassador and Ashish Srivastava, MD & CEO, PNB MetLife.

In marking the launch of this year’s championship, Mr. Ashish Kumar Srivastava, MD & CEO, PNB MetLife, said, “We could not be more excited to be back on the ground with the sixth edition of JBC, a unique platform for young badminton aspirants across the country that has evolved into one of the most sought-after annual sports events in the Indian Badminton fraternity. There is no doubt that physical fitness is as important to a person’s happiness as fiscal fitness, and we encourage everyone to aim for a healthy way of living.”

PNB MetLife launched the first Junior Badminton Championship in 2015 to promote the second-most prominent sport in India by giving young badminton players a platform to showcase their talent. This pioneering initiative has grown from four cities to 12, has hosted 23,000 matches over the past five years, and has earned the full-fledged support of the Badminton fraternity in India. Since 2019 it has brought in another layer of learning and development called ‘JBC Bootcamp’, which is hosted on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PNBMetLifeJBCBootcamp/featured, and showcases Badminton veterans and champions like P.V. Sindhu, U. Vimal Kimar ,Vijay Lancy, Anup Sridhar & many more, sharing their insights, tips and strategies to help the participants strengthen their game.

JBC 2022 Registration Details:

The registration process for JBC 2022 can be completed by calling +91 9319483219.

The complete tournament schedule:

Sr No	Cities	Venue	Address	Registration Start Date	Tournament Dates
1	Mumbai (Maharastra)	Andheri Sports Complex	Sports Complex, JP Road, Near Azad Nagar Metro Station, Andheri West, Mumbai – 400058		22-25 Aug
2	Bangalore (Karnataka)	Yuve Champion Academy	75/8, Chokkanahalli Layout Thanisandra Main Road Behind RR Signature Apartments, Opposite Bharatiya City, , Bengaluru,560064		27-30 Aug
3	Surat(Gujarat)	Yash Tennis Badminton Academy	Magdala Circle, Hazira Road, Opp ONGC Toll Naka, Nr. TGB & Cityplus, Dumas Road, Surat 395007		03-06 Sep
4	Lucknow (U.P)	K.D Singh Stadium	Hazratganj, Lucknow, 226001		02-06 Sep
5	Ranchi (Jharkhand)	Khel Gaon	Mega Sports Complex, Khel Gaon, Ranchi, 834009		07-09S ep
6	Indore (M.P.)	Indore Badminton Club	214, Manglaya Sadak, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452010		12-15 Sep
7	Chandigarh	Chandigarh Badminton Association	Sector 38, west, Behind Citco Petrol Pump, Chandigarh		13-15Sep
8	Thrissur (Kerala)	VKN Menon Indoor Stadium	Vadakke Stand, Chembukkav, Thrissur, Kerala 680001		18-21Sep
9	Hyderabad (Telangana)	Chetan Anand Badminton Academy	104, Rd Number 44, Kavuri Hills, Jubilee Hills, Madhapur,Hyderabad 500033		25-28 Sep
10	Jalandhar(Punjab)	Raizada Hansraj Badminton Stadium	8H9J+VV3, Jalandhar Cantt – Jandiala Rd, Civil Line, Jalandhar, Punjab 144006		02-04 Oct
11	Guhawati (Assam)	Kanaklata Indoor Stadium	Bhubneswar Barua Road, Near R. G. Barua Sports Complex, Gandhi Basti, Sarania Hills, Guwahati, Assam 781007		07-10 Oct
12	Delhi	IG Indoor Stadium	Indraprastha Estate, Grand Trunk Road, Near Raj Ghat, New Delhi 110002		09-12 Oct

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IHCL ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF ITS FOURTH GINGER HOTEL IN AHMEDABAD

Chandigarh, AUGUST 24, 2022: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the opening of a Ginger hotel at RTO Circle, Ahmedabad. The hotel is designed around the brand’s lean luxe design and service philosophy of offering a vibrant, contemporary, and seamless hospitality experience to its guests.

Commenting on the occasion, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President, IHCL, said, “With the opening of Ginger Ahmedabad, IHCL strengthens its presence in the city. Ahmedabad, a leading city with significant business potential and multiple micro markets, offers a huge opportunity for Ginger hotels. This will be Ginger’s fourth operational hotel in the city.”

Featuring 111 rooms including suites, Ginger Ahmedabad, RTO Circle is strategically located in a key commercial hub with convenient access to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, the Mahatma Gandhi Ashram and other important business centres in the city. Guests can indulge in glocal favourites at the all-day dining restaurant, Qmin, which blends the best of comfort, convenience and chill. The hotel also has a meeting room and fitness centre.

Ahmedabad is the financial capital of Gujarat along with being a popular destination amongst tourists for its rich cultural heritage and history.

With the addition of this hotel, IHCLwill have 19 hotels in Gujarat, including four under development.

Aditya Birla Health Insurance introduces a renewed version of its digital self-servicing chatbot ‘ABHI’

Chandigarh, Aug 24, 2022: Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Ltd. (ABHICL), the Health Insurance subsidiary of Aditya Birla Capital Limited, a noteworthy non-banking financial services company, has launched a revamped and renewed version of its self-servicing chatbot “ABHI”. The new version of the AI-enabled conversational chatbot comes with a claims registration feature, a unique offering in the standalone Indian health insurance industry. The ‘ABHI’ bot aids the customer experience journey by helping policy purchase, endorsement, renewal and register instant claims while guiding policyholders in a contactless manner.

Policyholders will be able to register, raise and track a claim via the ‘ABHI’ chatbot on Activ Health App, website (https://www.adityabirlacapital.com/healthinsurance) and WhatsApp. They can upload the prerequisite documents and bills to process their respective claims. Reimbursement claims procedures can be effortlessly conducted through the ABHI bot. For instance, a policyholder can access ABHICL’s WhatsApp service on +91 8828800035 through the registered number and choose ‘Claims’ from the self-servicing option. After doing so, the bot will trigger the intuitive journey and help the policyholder to register a claim. The bot can conduct natural-sounding conversations with users in Hindi, English and Hinglish and aims to offer support in at least 7 Indian languages in the future.

Over the years, ABHI has augmented its digitalisation efforts to provide improved customer experiences. With a complete ecosystem of digital assets, it has enabled a seamless end to end buy journey for its customers. ABHI also recently launched an industry first multi-lingual app for its customers, in addition to the existing multi-lingual website which was launched in the previous year. ABHI intends to continue investing in digital technology that provides simple and effective self-servicing capability to its customers. In FY22, 98% of its customers were on-boarded digitally with overall digital self-servicing at 65%. The new addition of digital claims registration feature will further expedite Claims digitization to facilitate faster claims processing and hassle-free claims experience.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Mayank Bathwal, CEO, Aditya Birla Health Insurance, said, “At Aditya Birla Health Insurance, all our innovations hinge around customer-centricity in order to provide a seamless customer experience with the aim of delivering uninterrupted insurance services digitally, and the launch of this new version of AI-enabled Chabot – “ABHI” is a step in that direction. This would simplify customer interactions and provide a quick resolution to their queries, from anywhere and at any time.”

‘ABHI’ is an AI/ML driven conversational chat and voice bot which handles queries to initiate registration of instant claim (available via chat bot), purchase and renewal of policy. Handling up to 400 FAQs and 27+ services, the bot lets policyholders, apart from claims registration, make changes or update personal details such as contact information, book a health assessment, track policy status, get an e-card, find network hospitals etc. The conversational bot is instrumental in conveying the policy benefits such as HealthReturns^TM wherein the user receives upto 100% of their premium on leading a healthy lifestyle.

IDBI Bank Enhances Retail Term Deposit Rates up to 6.70%.

Chandigarh, August 22, 2022: IDBI Bank has revised the interest rates upward on Term deposits across various tenors with effect from August 22, 2022. The Bank is now offering the highest rate of 6.55% on select tenors. The Bank has also introduced a limited period special 500 days deposit under the Amrit Mahotsav FD scheme, offering a peak rate of 6.70%. The Amrit Mahotsav offer is a limited offer available up to September 30, 2022.

Further, a special bucket of 500 days for US Dollar designated FCNR (B) deposits is also introduced offering a peak rate of 3.63%.

On World Mosquito Day, Godrej reveals how to win the war against Malaria through strategic collaboration

~96% decline reported in Malaria cases in Madhya Pradesh, due to public-private-people partnership

Chandigarh, August 21, 2022: On World Mosquito Day, Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL) completed over 6 years of collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Government to fight malaria and other vector-borne diseases through project EMBED (Elimination of Mosquito Borne Endemic Diseases). Since 2016, EMBED has run intensive behaviour change programmes that has made a difference to the lives of over 11.5 million people at high-risk from malaria and other vector-borne diseases in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

One of the projects under the EMBED initiative works to support India’s national goal of Malaria Elimination by 2030. We support and supplement the Government of India’s frameworks for Malaria Elimination 2016-2030 and the National Strategic Plan for Malaria Elimination 2017-2022 with WHO support.

The EMBED programme piloted in Madhya Pradesh in partnership with National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. In 2015, Madhya Pradesh was in Category-3 with 25 districts having malaria cases. In 2021, Madhya Pradesh was a Category-1 and was among the top 10 states having low malaria case, and the malaria infection has declined to below 1 case per 1,000 population. During this time, EMBED’s intervention villages accounted for 45% of the state’s malaria burden. The Health Ministry of Madhya Pradesh also expressed their appreciation of the initiative’s technical support and training of ground-level workers.

The progamme has also developed an app for Malaria treatment, which is being used by the Health Departments of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh and is available in local languages like Gondi and Halbi.

EMBED programme has been able to bring together everyone in the fight against malaria. The programme collaborated with the MP state health department, committees at district levels, the panchayats, ASHA workers, and the citizens. The progamme bridged the gaps in the existing framework. One example is that the team worked with health department and toured the villages and homes before health department organized fumigation drives in villages. They aligned the villagers and circled public spaces prone to mosquito breeding sites. This helped in effective coverage of the fumigation drive and reduced the breeding of mosquitoes.

The collaborative approach of the programme worked as malaria cases dropped by 96% between 2016 and 2021 and the state is on the path to meeting the goal of malaria elimination. A major win was that 80% of the 469 intervention villages in the four most malaria endemic districts of MP – Alirajpur, Jhabua, Sheopur, and Shivpuri – became malaria-free.

We’ve expanded our efforts and are now working on dengue and other vector-borne diseases awareness in four metro cities in India in partnership with the government.

Dr Prabhuram Choudhary, Health Minister, Madhya Pradesh, said, “Family Health India and Godrej CSR, in collaboration with Madhya Pradesh Public Health & Family Welfare, are running project EMBED to eliminate vector-borne disease in 11 Malaria affected districts of the state. This project has participated at the community level in IEC, BCC activities, ASHA, and training of ground-level health workers. The state’s health department has received excellent help from project EMBED regarding Malaria elimination as public awareness program. The technical assistance has also played a vital role. EMBED project has developed a Malaria dose chart application for the right treatment of Malaria positive cases which is used by ASHA and ANM workers and is applicable in all 51 districts of Madhya Pradesh. This application is helping in the correct and complete treatment of Malaria. In collaboration with these institutions, the state government has worked on properly using LLIN, fever surveillance, and comprehensive treatment of Malaria patients. It has also helped in the reduction of vector sources. The combined efforts have brought MP from category 3 to category 1 in Malaria elimination in 2021. I hope the EMBED project will be extended in the state in Malaria affected districts so that the State government can continue getting help in eradicating Malaria and Dengue control.”

Sudhir Sitapati, MD, Godrej Consumer Products Limited, said, “Health and poverty are intertwined. Public health problems affect the poor people disproportionately. Wage loss due to malaria and dengue continue to be serious concerns in India. Project EMBED is a proven collaborative model that ensures people are aware, take precautions and seek medical support at the right time to combat malaria. Our role and aim through EMBED is to provide support to the existing government efforts and ensure last mile impact by inculcating behavioural change, encouraging community action to prevent Malaria, and timely diagnosis and treatment. With the success of EMBED we now aim to fight dengue and other vector-borne diseases and protect over 30 million people by 2025.”

Dr Bitra George, Director, Family Health India shared, “With funding support from GCPL, Family Health India (FH India) has supported the State Vector Borne Disease Control Program, Government of Madhya Pradesh in its goal of elimination of malaria by 2030. The behaviour change communication tools and online training module have been adopted by the state and scaled across all districts in Madhya Pradesh. Through the efforts of the EMBED team, Madhya Pradesh has achieved the category 01 status at the national level on the way toward malaria elimination on the occasion of World Malaria Day event held on 25th April 2022 at New Delhi. We are proud of our partnership with Godrej as well as Department of Public Health and Family Welfare, Government of Madhya Pradesh and continue to strive towards the malaria elimination goal in the state.”

Gayatri Divecha, Head CSR & Sustainability, Godrej Industries and Associate Companies, said “Our biggest learning from EMBED is that developmental problems are interconnected, deep rooted, and require large scale systemic change and innovation. It is difficult to work on these problems in silos. Our successful partnerships with various government entities at the State Health departments, District Collectors, Chief Medical Officers and the people at the Panchayat were an essential ingredient to our success. Without the immense commitment, dedication, and strategic vision of the Government of MP, none of our work with EMBED would have been possible.”

Over 95% of the Indian population lives in malaria-endemic areas. 80% of the cases occur among 20% of the population that live in tribal, hilly, and hard-to-reach areas. Statistics from the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program reveal an evident decline of Malaria case load as well as the fatalities. But the data from the World Malaria Report 2021 points out that the rate of decline of Malaria cases has been slower than pre-pandemic. Furthermore, the report highlights that India still shares over 80% of the malaria burden of SouthEast Asia. As per research, a 10% decrease in Malaria has been associated with a 0.3% rise in GDP. The total economic burden from malaria in India is around USD 1.9 billion and this can be reversed as malaria is an eliminable disease.

Ashok Leyland launches AVTR 4825 Tippers with H6 Engine

Chandigarh, August 21, 2022:Ashok Leyland, the flagship company of the Hinduja group and India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, launched its AVTR 4825 Tipper powered by its H6 Engine.

AVTR is the India’s first modular truck platform offering the entire range from 19T to 55T GVW trucks, and has been received exceedingly well by the customers.

The versatile AVTR 4825 Tippers range has a slew of cabin and Tipper load body options from which the customer can choose to suit their exact operations. It is powered by the 250hp H-series 4V 6-cylinder engine with i-Gen6 technology which enhances the engine performance and durability while ensuring overall lower cost of ownership when compared to competition. The excellent drivability, ride comfort, reliability and faster turnaround time on rough terrains ensures more loads at faster speed on continuous long hauls. This leads to higher productivity, better operating economy and fleet optimization.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar said “These tippers score high on fluid efficiency, durability and reliability. The powerful H6 4V engine along with heavy duty drivelines, deliver best-in-class performance with optimum gradability suitable for all construction and mining related surface transportation.”

AVTR 4825 H6 4V Tippers are factory fitted with the 29 cu. m. Box Body. 18 cu. m and 23 cu. m variants are also available along with an option of U-shaped body. It is suitable for surface transportation of coal, as well as for infrastructure and road construction projects.

Godrej Interio unveils a new kitchen campaign ahead of the festive season

~ The campaign conceptualized by Contract Advertising communicates how Godrej Interio Kitchens are designed to meet the unique needs of the modern Indian kitchen ~

Link – https://youtu.be/q6nCYH9rPcI

Chandigarh, 21^th August 2022: Godrej & Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, announced that its business Godrej Interio, India’s leading furniture solutions brand, in home and institutional segments, today unveiled a DVC as part of its new Kitchen campaign. The DVC, conceptualized by Contract Advertising, highlights how Godrej Interio’s Modular Kitchens are made for the Great Indian Family.

Aesthetically shot, the film shows how design innovations from Godrej Interio are driven by a deep understanding of the Indian consumers, their homes, lives, and aspirations. Godrej Interio Kitchens are beautifully designed and built keeping in mind the unique demands faced by kitchens in Indian homes.

Commenting on the campaign, Sumeet Bhojani, Head of Marketing Communications, Godrej Interio said, “Kitchens play a significant role in our homes. It is a place where food goes beyond being just nourishment and becomes a vehicle of love and family bonding. We Indians are very passionate about our food and how it is prepared. And this naturally places very unique demands on the Indian kitchen. Godrej Interio Kitchens are well equipped to meet these demands with our deep understanding of the Indian consumer and a relentless focus on quality, thoughtful design, and innovation. This film takes us through a day in the life of a typical Indian family and highlights the myriad roles played by the kitchen in making the cooking experience easy and enjoyable.”

Sumeet further commented, “The modular kitchens category continues to be a key focus area for us. It is a fast-growing category, and our goal is to spread our network to over 200+ channel partners in FY22-23 year and grow the revenue in this business by at least 25-30%.”

Ayan Chakraborty, EVP & GM, Contract Mumbai said “Indian cuisine is diverse. And therefore, when it comes to cooking, the needs are also quite different across India. Our strategy was based on this insight. And Godrej Interio Kitchens with its multiple customization options delivers to the needs of the diverse Indian families across India” –

The 45-second ad opens with a beautiful shot of a modern Indian kitchen and progresses with highlighting the role that the kitchen plays throughout the day in the lives if a typical Indian family. The film highlights the uniqueness of a Godrej Interio Kitchen as it takes you on a journey of cooking from pounding of masalas on the kitchen counter to the splashing of oil while cooking typical Indian cuisine. These adverse conditions are expertly handled by galvanized steel cabinets and boiling waterproof marine ply shutters. The film also showcases exciting innovations such as the” Active Sink with Auto Hot soak” feature that helps pre-soak the dishes thus make cleaning them easier and the “Neo Smart chimney with cool draft” that along with efficiently sucking up smoke also generates a cool air draft thus providing a pleasant cooking experience even while roasting or frying. The DVC ends with showing an example of optimized storage accessories that make the best use of the space available for storage, dovetailing to the closing message that “Godrej Interio Kitchens” are made “For the Great Indian family.”

The film will be broadcasted on YouTube, and multiple OTT platforms ahead of the festive season.

Credits:

Client: Godrej Interio

Creative agency: Contract Advertising

Agency Team: Ayan Chakraborty, Rohit Srivastava, Sagar Mahabaleshwarkar, Rahul Ghosh, Sagar Chabbria, Sabina Singh, Ashupreet Khullar, Daxsh Kaicker

Production house: Small Fry Productions

Director: Alok Kulkarni

Mahindra announces an amazing introductory price for the Scorpio Classic – starting ₹11.99 lakh

· New avatar of the legendary Scorpio SUV retains the original silhouette of the iconic Scorpio

· Offered with a refreshed design, contemporary interiors, enhanced performance, improved ride quality, and built-in technology

· Available in two variants – Classic S and Classic S11, in five attractive colour options

· Classic S variant is available at an introductory price of ₹11.99 lakh,and Classic S11 at ₹15.49 lakh (ex-showroom)

Chandigarh, August 21, 2022: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., pioneers of the SUV segment in India, today announced the prices of the new Scorpio Classic – the new avatar of its iconic brand, Scorpio. The tough and authentic SUV with refreshed design, contemporary interiors, built-in technology and a new powerful engine, amongst other features will be available in two variants, Classic S and Classic S11, and is available at an introductory price of ₹11.99 lakh onwards (ex-showroom).

The Scorpio brand has evolved over time to address the customer needs and remains the popular choice amongst enthusiasts who look for a tough, powerful, and capable ‘authentic’ SUV. The Scorpio Classic will continue to demonstrate its traits of standout design, unmissable presence, and powerful performance. The variant wise prices of the Scorpio Classic are as follows:

Variant	Diesel MT (ex-showroom)
Classic S	₹11.99 L
Classic S11	₹15.49 L

Distinguished by its new bold grille along with a muscular bonnet and the new twin-peaks logo adding to the appeal of the original form, the Scorpio Classic boasts of superior performance – powered by an all-aluminium lightweight GEN-2 mHawk engine, producing a whopping 97 kW (132 PS) of power and 300 Nm torque. To further refine the driving experience, a new six-speed cable shift has been introduced in the manual transmission. The suspension set-up has been enhanced with MTV-CL technology to deliver superior ride and handling. Significant advancement has been made in the steering system for easy manoeuvrability and control.

Taking the premium quotient to the next level, the Scorpio Classic comes with a new two-tone beige-and-black interior theme, classic wood pattern console, and premium quilted upholstery. The vehicle also has a new 22.86 cm touchscreen infotainment system with phone mirroring and other modern functionalities. Available in five body colour options: Red Rage, Napoli Black, Dsat Silver, Pearl White and a newly introduced Galaxy Grey, it is available across Mahindra dealerships for customers to explore and test drive since 12 August 2022. The Scorpio Classic will be sold alongside the All-New Scorpio-N which was launched in June this year.

Variant Wise Feature List

Classic S	Classic S11
· LED Tail Lamps · 2nd Row AC Vents · Hydraulic Assisted Bonnet · Bonnet Scoop · Dual Airbags · Micro Hybrid Tech · Intellipark	Over Classic S · 22.86 cm Touch Screen Infotainment · LED Eyebrows · DRL · Spoiler · Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels · Arm Rest on Front Seats

Social Media Addresses for Scorpio Classic

· Brand website:https://auto.mahindra.com/suv/scorpio

· Twitter: @MahindraScorpio

· YouTube:youtube.com/mahindrascorpio

· Instagram: @mahindra.scorpio.official

· Facebook: @MahindraScorpio

· Hashtag: #ScorpioClassic

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India introduces the all-new 2022 Activa Premium Edition

Chandigarh, August 21, 2022: After delighting millions of Indians over the last two decades with its reliability and irresistible charm, Honda Activa turns yet another golden chapter with the introduction of the all-new 2022 Activa Premium Edition.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Atsushi Ogata, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India said, “Leading from the front, Honda Activa with its all-inclusive appeal has catered to riders across all age groups in the country. Over the last two decades, brand Activa has not only undergone a technological evolution but also elevated its design appeal, making it sharper and trendier with each new update. With the 2022 premium edition, we are delighted to bring Activa in its all new avatar that promises an unmatched sophistication for its customers with a touch of gold.”

Premium Design with all-new aesthetics

The all-new 2022 Activa premium edition radiates extravagance with a well-balanced touch of luxury, visible right from the front to grab rails at the rear.

Catching the attention of the new age riders, the new edition is adorned with a golden Honda mark on front cover with golden garnish along with 3D golden ‘Activa’ emblem and premium edition stripes on the sides. Thus, announcing its prominent arrival on the streets both from side as well as front angles.

Furthermore, the café brown hues on the inner coversalong with saddle brown seats lend a sophisticated & premium look to the overall appeal of this edition. Elevating its style factor with golden colored wheels, the new edition further sustains the overall tone with blacked out-front suspension & engine cover.

Price & Availability

Activa Premium Edition is available in 3 new attractive colour options – Mat Sangria Red Metallic, Mat Marshal Green Metallic and Pearl Siren Blue. The all-new Activa Premium Edition will be available deluxe variant only and is excitingly priced at INR 75,400 (Ex-showroom, Delhi).

Gulf Oil safeguards 10,000+ truckers by rolling out free healthcare program

~Hon’ble minister, Shri. Nitin Gadkari applauds the initiative undertaken by Gulf Oil Lubricants~

Chandigarh, 21 August 2022: Gulf Oil Lubricants, a Hinduja Group Company, extended one-year free healthcare support to more than 10,000 truckers across 12 cities on the backdrop of Raksha Bandhan as a part of its ‘Gulf Superfleet Suraksha Bandhan’campaign which is in its 4^th season. The free healthcare program is driven to support the trucker community that usually battles the odds to provide essentials to the nation. The one-of-a-kind program aims to empower the trucker community & be more mindful of their health requirements and avail medical needs while on the go. The program ensures the protection of over 10,000 families as the breadwinner is covered for health and accidental issues. Gulf Oil has roped in Onsurity as a healthcare partner for execution of this noble cause.

Truckers from Delhi/NCR, Jaipur, Kolkata, Faridabad, Indore, Kanpur, Varanasi, Surat, Ludhiana, Navi Mumbai, and Nalagarh were the first beneficiaries of the plan. They can now enjoy upto 4 lakh (3 lakh accidental and 1 lakh health cover) worth of healthcare cover, medical facilities like free online/on-call doc appointments, discounts on medicines, health check-ups, etc. on the go. With this initiative, Gulf Oil not only achieved its goal but was also able to raise health awareness among India’s trucking community.

Shri. Nitin Gadkari – Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India appreciated Gulf Oil’s efforts to engage with the trucker community in India. In response to the campaign, Nitin Gadkari said, “It is a great initiative taken by Gulf Oil keeping in mind the health and safety of the trucker community in India. It is a good start to a noble cause, and I believe it can be illuminated with NGOs, social organizations and professional companies working in the same direction for the betterment of our society. Gulf Oil has taken a great initiative, and I wish them success with their campaign.”

Talking about the initiative, Ravi Chawla, MD, and CEO at Gulf Oil Lubricants said “While the trucker community meets the nation’s requirements with their round-the-clock logistical service, their health and well-being have taken a back seat. As a lubricant brand, our mission was to provide care and protection to our unsung heroes, who should not be excluded from the basic needs of healthcare. We have always appreciated their efforts, and we will continue to support and care for the community.”

On the partnership, Kulin Shah, Co-Founder & COO, Onsurity said, “Our ethos is to provide affordable and reliable healthcare solutions to SME employees and their families. Our tie-up with Gulf Oil is another stepping stone towards bridging the missing middle gap in the healthcare segment. With this partnership, we will continue to channelize our energy to extend our platform towards the Indian gig workforce and provide them a unique avenue for availing comprehensive digital health and wellness benefits.”

As part of the campaign, Gulf Oil launched a heart-warming brand film titled ‘Vachan Suraksha ka’ illustrating an emotional tie between a brother and a sister on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggXOaruVSAA&ab_channel=GulfOilIndia

Ambuja Schools across regions outshine in CBSE 10 & 12 Board exams

· 76 students scored over 90% in class 10; 168 score over 75% in class 12

· Two students tie for the highest class 10 score at 98.67%

Chandigarh, 21^th August, 2022: The performance of the 739 students of the five Ambuja Schools, located in the vicinity of the company’s integrated plants, who appeared for the CBSE Board examinations of Class 10 and Class 12, has been nothing short of excellent. These students faced a period rife with challenges as they dodged intermittent lockdowns, change in exam pattern, online classes and hybrid learning that clearly disrupted the learning-teaching process.

The five schools managed by the Ambuja Vidya Niketan (AVN) Trust are: AVN Ambujanagar; Ambuja Public School, Rabriyawas; Ambuja Vidya Peeth, Rawan (Bhatapara); AVN Upparwahi, (MCW); and DAV-AVN, Darlaghat.

In Class 10, of the 396 students (204 boys and 192 girls) who appeared for the examinations (20 more than last year), 76 students scored over 90%; and 271 scored between 60% and 90%. Two students – Dewang Mahajan (APS Rabriyawas) and Khushi Agarwal (AVP Rawan) – led from the front with a whopping score of 98.67%; meanwhile, AVP Rawan – the most sought-after school in the region – clocked thehighest class average of 81.5%.

In Class 12, of the 343 students (206 boys and 137 girls) who appeared for the examinations (90 more than last year), 168 students scored over 75%, performing well in all streams – Science, Commerce and Humanities – where highest scores were improved from last year. The toppers were Arya Singh (AVN Upparwahi): 97% in Science, Aman Dulani (AVP Rawan) and Alma Aleck (AVN Upparwahi): 98% in Commerce; and Shamita Rawal (APS Rabriyawas): 97.6% in Humanities.

Mr. Neeraj Akhoury, CEO India Holcim and MD & CEO of Ambuja Cements Ltd., said:“The preceding two years haven’t been easy on anyone in general and students in particular. Learning modes were anything but normal and students have had to go through great difficulties to not just study but even concentrate during these anxious times. In this context, I’m extremely proud that students of the Ambuja Schools have come out with flying colours in the Class 10 and 12 CBSE Board examinations, among the most difficult and testing in India. I wish them glorious careers and fulfilling lives.”

Brimming with joy, Principal Ipsita Choudhury of APS Rabriyawas said, “I speak on behalf of all Ambuja Principals that despite a year fraught with uncertainties, it is the timely intervention and support in the form of focused tutorials, one-on-one counseling sessions with professionals that has attributed to our collective success.” Principal Sanjay Pandey of AVP Rawan said that keeping up the morale of the teachers was equally important. “Various forums were created for them to speak up, channel their energies and collaborate with their counterparts from the other Ambuja schools. This definitely helped them help our students sail through a stressful period.”

Overall, the five schools have moved from strength-to-strength with every passing year, thanks to the unstinted support and encouragement of Ambuja Cements’ management and AVN Trust. For the upcoming academic year, efforts are on to understand the gaps in learning and focus on overcoming the roadblocks.

Re-birth of an Icon: Switch Mobility Ltd. unveils India’s first and unique electric double-decker bus – Switch EiV 22

· Brings back the iconic double decker memories through an advanced & electric technology product

· India’s first electric double decker AC bus – suitable for comfortable & urban commuting

· Offers the latest in styling, technology, safety, comfort and environmental compatibility

· Equipped with robust and long-lasting NMC chemistry batteries, increasing range and efficiency

· Order bank of 200 double decker buses for BEST, Mumbai – the most prolific bus operator of double decker buses in India for over seven decades

Chandigarh, India – 21 August 2022: Switch Mobility Ltd (‘Switch’), the next-generation, carbon neutral electric bus and light commercial vehicle company, today unveiled India’s first and unique electric double decker air-conditioned bus – Switch EiV 22. Designed, developed and manufactured in India and utilising Switch’s global electric bus experience, Switch EiV 22 is equipped with the latest technology, ultra-modern design, highest safety and best-in-class comfort features. The renewed iconic double decker bus is designed to revolutionize public transportation in the country and will set new standards in the intra-city bus market.

The Switch EiV 22 is a significant achievement in terms of packaging, making it the world’s first – standard floor, air conditioned, electric double decker with wider door on rear overhang and a rear staircase. The double decker has a lightweight aluminium body construction, which offers higher passenger to weight ratio and a competitive cost per km, per passenger.

Shri. Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, said, “There is a need to transform the country’s transport system from a long-term perspective. With focus on reforming urban transport, we are trying to build a low footprint and high passenger density integrated EV mobility ecosystem. Government’s vision and policies are supportive towards EV adoption with growing consumer demand for greener solutions. I would like to congratulate Switch Mobility, subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, for being the one to revive the double decker and remain committed to introducing new technologies for the benefit of passengers and society, at large.”

Mr. Ashok Hinduja, Chairman – Hinduja Group of Companies (India)commenting on the launch, said, “Launching the Switch EiV 22 in Mumbai today is a proud moment for the Hinduja Group. The Group has a clear vision to support economies in delivering their net zero objectives through renewable energy, finance and zero emission transportation. We are confident that our new zero emission double-decker bus will deliver a cleaner and more sustainable future, reinforcing our commitment for India and the globe.”

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman – Switch Mobility, said, “It’s an extremely proud moment for us as we bring back the iconic double decker to India. Ashok Leyland was a pioneer among Indian manufacturers when it first launched the double decker in 1967 in Mumbai and Switch is carrying forward that legacy. With our strong expertise in double deckers, both in India and UK and with over 100 Switch electric double deckers in service on UK roads, we are happy to not only bring back this icon to life, but also reinforces our commitment to create this form factor for India and the globe.”

Talking about the brand’s entry into the EV double decker space for the Indian market, Mr. Mahesh Babu, CEO – Switch Mobility India, COO – Switch Mobility Ltd, said, “We are pleased to unveil the Switch EiV 22, India’s first and unique electric double decker. We have strived to meet multiple challenges to fulfil new age customer requirements, while retaining the iconic double decker lineage. The Switch EiV 22 is designed and developed to meet Indian conditions, while at the same time provide superior customer comfort and delight. Mumbai and double deckers are synonymous with public transport, and we are certain that Switch EiV 22 will not only bring back fond memories for Mumbaikars, but will transform the public transport space in terms of sustainability and footprint which is the need of the hour in India.”

The Switch electric double decker can ferry nearly twice the number of seated passengers as a comparable single decker bus with just 18% increase in kerb weight. The architecture of the double decker uses a 650 V system – the same platform as Switch EiV 12, launched in June 2022, which is also common with Switch e1.

With contemporary styling and feel-good interiors and exteriors, the double decker boasts of wide front and rear doors, two staircases and an emergency door complying with the latest safety standards. The AC offers effective cooling in India’s hot climatic conditions, while the optimized seating for 65 passengers is the maximum number of seats to be offered in the given footprint. Each seat has a lightweight cushion and the interiors come with car like comfort for passenger convenience. This state-of-the-art electric double decker serves as an ideal solution for urban commuting, as they occupy less road, terminal and depot floor space per seated passenger.

Powering Switch EiV 22 is a 231 kWh capacity, 2-string, liquid cooled, higher density NMC chemistry battery pack with dual gun charging system. This enables the electric double decker to have a range up to 250 kms for intra city applications.

Switch India has already secured an order of 200 electric double decker buses in Mumbai and is looking at a dominant space in the electric double decker segment, across key regions in the country.

Bus components are manufactured in India which will enable to achieve FAME II compliance.

Over 30% of Indian employees say they are very likely to switch to a new employer and 71% are concerned about being overlooked for career advancement: PwC India report

● Over 80% believe that their jobs can be done remotely.

● 71% of employees are concerned about being overlooked for career advancement.

● 54% of employees strongly/moderately agree that India faces a shortage of their skill sets.

● 75% of employees have had conversations on topics of social and political significance at work.

Chandigarh, 21 August 2022: Workplaces in India have changed significantly over the past couple of years, with considerable mindset shifts for both employers and employees. While employers have been more focused on building a resilient workforce strategy, employees on their part are driven by opportunities for fulfilment, creativity, innovation and authenticity, apart from financial rewards. They have also been placing a premium on organisational trust, innovation and hybrid ways of working, according to PwC’s India Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2022,which provides important insights into employee drivers, aspirations and specific outcomes employees expect in the next 12 months, along with employee perspectives on transparency and implications of technology.

According to the survey, the shift to hybrid work is expected to continue, with 81% of employees in India believing that their jobs can be done remotely and with 31% of those who can work remotely already working in a hybrid way.

An important finding is that a significantly higher proportion of Indian employees (71%) are concerned about being overlooked for career advancement as compared to their global peers (21%). This points to the need for deploying more transparent and data-driven processes to define career pathways.

Chaitali Mukherjee, Partner and Leader, People and Organisation, PwC India said: “The disruptive landscape of social, environmental, economic and geopolitical changes has had profound consequences on organisations and their workforce strategies. Leaders need to consider these disruptions while drawing up their short- and long-term plans for the organisation as well as their people. The themes emerging from our survey throw light on how organisational strategy is experienced at the grassroots level. For an organisation to be fit for future, it is imperative that employee perspective dovetails with the employer’s perspective to accelerate transformation keeping in mind the workforce dynamics, with well-defined tangible measures to bring about greater alignment between both these aspects.”

India is one of the countries with a huge perceived gap in skills, with 54% of employees strongly/moderately agreeing that India faces a shortage of their skill sets and 67% believing that their job requires specialist training. At present, employers are seen as addressing skill shortages through wage increases, recruitment and automation, with fewer using upskilling as a strategic lever.

The survey finds that 34% of respondents in India believe they are extremely/very likely to switch to a new employer as compared to 19% globally. Further, 32% say they plan to leave the workforce. Millennials are the most likely to seek new employment, with 37% indicating that they are likely to switch employers in the next 12 months. While Gen Z employees are less likely to quit, 33% of them are extremely or very likely to ask for a reduction in work hours.

Also, more than half of the respondents in the survey are concerned about the lack of opportunities to work with or learn technological skills from their colleagues. This learning gap begins at the top, with more than 50% of CEOs perceiving a lack of opportunities for learning technological skills.

Sensitive social and political topics are occupying an increasingly important place in workplace conversations, with 75% of employees having had conversations of this nature, highlighting the need for employers to actively create safe spaces for such conversations.

The survey also highlights that employees expect more transparency and support in incorporating environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into their work.

“Balancing business considerations with employee aspirations is easier said than done. However, given the fact that the future of work is undergoing a massive overhaul, it is important to prioritise leadership and employee capabilities to drive change and move the needle in business,” Chaitali added.

PwC recommends that organisations adopt a data-driven approach to broaden their understanding of what drives employees. It is also critical to enable the shift to hybrid working through empowerment with equity by developing clarity in criteria and guardrails. Organisations should also prioritise investing in upskilling as a strategic lever to proactively address talent shortage, and use technology to augment human potential and reinvent the employee value proposition, while thinking creatively to navigate constraints and balance business considerations with individual aspirations.

Hiring of freshers in India becomes more promising: TeamLease EdTech

~ 59% India Inc. companies are keen to hire freshers in H2 (July to December) 2022, only 17% companies were interested in H2 2021~

Chandigarh, 19^th August, 2022: One of India’s leading learning solutions provider, TeamLease EdTech, has today launched their bi-annual “Career Outlook Report”, for the period July to December, 2022. A comprehensive analysis of the fresher hiring sentiment in India, the report highlights India as a sunrise location for entry level jobs globally. As per the report findings, 59% of employers in India are keen to hire freshers between July to December, 2022 – a 12% increase vs. H1 2022 and a 42% increase vs. H2 2021.

From an industry perspective, Information and Technology, Ecommerce & Technology Start-ups and Telecommunications are the most promising sectors for freshers with 65%, 48% and 47% employers showing the intent to hire, respectively. Powered by increased spending in the sector (US$ 101.8 billion this year), increased exports (8% to 10% increase in FY22-23), growth of the software product industry and the government allocating a US$ 11.58 billion budget; the IT sector is rapidly growing and is expected to hire 100,000 freshers to meet rising demand. On the other hand, telecom companies are looking forward to infuse INR 3345 crores in the sector and expand their data centres pan India. There is a huge demand for job roles across 5G-centric technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and cloud computing in the telecom sector; with majority of companies hiring freshers. On the other hand, some industries where hiring sentiment was muted are Travel & Hospitality (7%), Agriculture and Agrochemicals (9%), Real Estate: Non-Essential (9%) and Maketing & Advertising (9%).

The report also analyses the top locations for freshers. Bengaluru emerges as the leading city for freshers with 68% employers projecting the intent to hire, followed by Mumbai (50%) and Delhi (45%). In H1 2022, hiring sentiment of employers in Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi stood at 59%, 43% and 39% respectively. In H2 2021 (same period last year), the hiring sentiment for employers in Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi stood at 43%, 31% and 27%, respectively. The locations which have shown slow hiring sentiment are Kochi (2%), Indore (2%), Coimbatore (3%) and Chandigarh (5%)

Sharing his views, Mr Shantanu Rooj, Founder & CEO, TeamLease EdTech, said, “The sentiment around entry level jobs and freshers hiring is significantly improving in India. More employers willing to increase their freshers resource pool is, in fact, an evidence of this trend and indicates that the employability of the country’s youth has undergone a value driven change over the last few years. A lot of this is attributed to the alliance between employers, academia and industry; which has played an instrumental role in creating the right kind of programs (like apprenticeship embedded degrees) to educate and up-skill candidates. Within a year, freshers hiring sentiment has seen a 42% increase and we are optimistic that this will go up rapidly in the coming years as well”.

A deep dive into job roles, the report highlights Affiliate Marketing Specialist, Data Scientist, Molecular Biologist, Wellness Specialist and User Experience Researcher as the top in demand job roles for freshers. On the other hand, elaborating upon the requirements of the employer, the report also indicates the top skill sets that employers expect in candidates.

“While employers are keen to hire freshers, they have also become very particular that candidates should have the right mix of domain and soft skills. Today, industry knowledge takes precedence and therefore academic institutions are also creating skill focused blended learning programs which are fortifying the employability of students and making them job ready for future roles”, added Ms Neeti Sharma, Co-Founder and President, TeamLease EdTech.

The Career Outlook Report is a detailed analysis of freshers hiring sentiment of 865 companies, across 18 industries and 14 locations; for the period July to December 2022. The report is also intended to guide and provide information to freshers on what to expect in the job market during the July-December 2022 period. It highlights the job roles in demand and the essential skills (core and associated) required for these roles. The report also highlights leading skill-enhancing courses that can act as an employability booster for securing these roles. The report is intended to be a source of market information that helps freshers acquaint themselves with current market trends.

Burger King India launches world’s first ever 100% Veg, No Onion, No Garlic restaurant in Katra, Vaishno Devi

Chandigarh, 21 August, 2022: Burger King India today announced the launch of its first All Veg, No Onion, No Garlic restaurant in Katra, Jammu. In Katra, the city popularly known for the highly revered Goddess Vaishno Devi temple, Burger King will serve pure veg food without onions and garlic in line with the expectations of devotees. This launch also marks the brand’s 325 restaurants across 77 cities in India.

Mata Vaishno Devi temple is one of the key places of worship in North India and finding a safe and hygienic restaurant that serves 100% veg food with no onions & no garlic is a challenge faced by many devotees. To address this specific need, Burger King India has specifically developed an 100% veg, no onion, no garlic menu. This 100% vegetarian menu comprises mouth-watering offerings like Crispy Veg burger, Veg Volcano, Indie Masala Whopper, BK Café coffee & other beverages. The menu has been built from scratch ensuring no onion and garlic at all ingredient levels to ensure our guests get food exactly as per their expectations in terms of taste.

In addition to the Katra restaurant, Burger King India has two 100% Veg restaurants, one each in Mathura and Haridwar.

Mr. Rajeev Varman, CEO, Burger King India said, “Our Katra restaurant will be the 1^st Burger King in the entire world which is 100% Veg, No Onion, No Garlic. We are proud to dedicate this restaurant to Maa Vaishno Devi. At Burger King, we truly believe in “Your Way” and this restaurant is our commitment to devotee guests looking for safe, hygienic and quality food. We are certain that our guests will have a Whopper of a time with our veg offerings that have received a lot of love from markets across India.”

YES BANK announces investments in Venture Catalysts Group Funds

Chandigarh, Aug 21, 2022: YES BANK announced today that it has invested with Venture Catalysts Group Funds (Venture Catalysts), which is an integrated incubator that offers funding, mentorship, and network to startup founders from the idea inception stage to the growth stages of the startup journey. The fund has also sponsored two platforms, Beams Fintech Fund that invests in growth Stage companies operating at the intersection of Financial Services and Technology, and 9 Unicorns Accelerator Fund that is an early stage sector agnostic investor.

With these investments, YES BANK aims to further its mission of catering to the ‘Future Tech Businesses of India’, bolster innovation in the technology space including financial sector, and potentially partnering with leading tech startups that Venture Catalysts has invested in — Beams Fintech Fund and 9 Unicorns Accelerator Fund.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ajay Rajan, Country Head – Transaction Banking, YES BANK said, “We are pleased to partner with Venture Catalysts and the allied platforms – Beams Fintech Fund and 9 Unicorns Accelerator Fund. We believe that this partnership is a step in the direction to becoming the go-to-bank for technology startups. India is at the cusp of a massive growth and the collaboration between banks and tech companies – especially with fintechs – will play a critical role in this journey.”

This partnership aligns with YES BANKs’ long-term growth strategy of strengthening its foothold in India’s growing tech markets by investing in the founders of tomorrow. Collaborating with and supporting tech companies to ideate and experiment on various use cases such as agriculture, healthcare, commerce, education, logistics, open banking, supply chain finance, payments, digital banking, among others has been a key driver of YES BANK’s innovation strategy. YES BANK has been a pioneer in the tech space and was the first Bank in India to open up its APIs to various tech companies in 2015.

Mr. Naveen Surya, Co-founding member, Beams Fintech Fund, said “This partnership is a great beginning for the tech ecosystem. YES BANK has always been a visionary bank and a harbinger of innovation related to anything tech. We hope this will encourage other banks and fintechs in the market to partner with groups like Beams Fintech Fund and 9 Unicorns Accelerator Fund. We are aiming to create a large ecosystem consisting of banks, NBFCs and fintech companies to support the tech ecosystem. We are looking forward to working with YES BANK and bringing positive outcomes for all our portfolio companies and founders.”

Beams Fintech Fund (Beams), a CAT II AIF, was launched at the start of 2022 with a mission to build India’s largest fintech ecosystem. It will be actively investing in innovative technology companies at growth stages in the fintech space in India including in the Embedded Finance, SAAS for Banks & FIs, SAAS for Businesses, Global Enterprise SAAS, Personal Finance Management and Neo Banking space. Beams brings a strong value add approach towards investing as it has been building an ecosystem of fintech players, banks, and NBFCs. Due to its clear vision and ambition, Beams continues to add key strategic investors and leading financial institutions from India and internationally to its roster of investors. Beams is targeting to deploy US$ 180 mn across 10 to 12 investments over the next three years in Series B and C rounds of companies.

9 Unicorns Accelerator Fund (9 Unicorns), a CAT I AIF, launched by the founding members of Venture Catalysts is a sector agnostic VC that aims to disrupt idea stage investing in India. 9 Unicorns has already raised $100 mn and is actively deploying from its maiden fund. It invests seed capital of $300K – $500K in the first round, with larger follow-on capital in fast growing deserving portfolio companies. Along with idea stage investing, the fund participates in a select few growth stage opportunities, generally Series C and beyond.

Axis Bank signs MOU with Indian Coast Guard

Chandigarh, 21 August 2022: Axis Bank, India’s third largest private sector bank,reinforced its commitment to the Defence sector by signing an MOU with the Indian Coast Guard, offering a defence service salary package with best-in-class benefits and features under its ‘’Power Salute’’ initiative.

The signing ceremony was held at the Coast Guard Headquarters, with the Indian Coast Guard, represented by Deputy Inspector General Kajal Roy, Principal Director (Administration), in the presence of Additional Director General, Rakesh Pal PTM, TM and Axis Bank was represented by Ms. Tanu Malhotra, Executive Vice President and Lt Col M.K Sharma, National Accounts Head.

Through this exclusive Defence service salary package, Axis Bank will offer numerous benefits to all ranks of the Indian Coast Guard – Veterans, Cadets, Recruits –

· Personal Accidental cover of upto Rs. 56 lakhs to all personnel, Veterans, Cadets, Recruits

· Additional Children Education Grant upto Rs. 8 lakhs

· Total Permanent Disability Cover benefit upto Rs. 46 lakhs

· Permanent Partial disability cover of upto Rs. 46 lakhs

· Air Accident cover of Rs. 1 Crore

· NIL Processing fee & 12 EMI waiver on Home loans

· Zero Balance accounts for 3 family members with no charges

· Universal account number across India wherein all Axis Bank branches will function as “Home branch’’

The MOU is a reflection of Axis Bank’s constant endeavour to serve the Defence Forces and help them meet their financial requirements, aspirations and milestones. Axis Bank’s digital initiatives will enable the defence personnel at borders and other remote areas to stay connected and get easy access to its bouquet of financial solutions.

Mahindra and Volkswagen Explore Strategic Alliance to Accelerate Electrification of Indian Automotive Market

· Volkswagen Group and Mahindra sign Term Sheet on supply of MEB Electric Components for Mahindra’s new Electric SUV family

· Both companies will explore further potential opportunities for collaboration in India in the field of e-mobility, including Vehicle Projects, Charging and Energy Solutions and Cell Manufacturing

· Volkswagen is well on track to unlock the full potential of its platform business as part of the NEW AUTO strategy

Chandigarh, August 16, 2022 – Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) and The Volkswagen Group and today announced they intend to expand their cooperation. Both companies signed a Term Sheet on the supply of MEB electric components for Mahindra’s new, purpose-built electric platform INGLO, deepening the Partnering Agreement from earlier this year. The cooperation intends to have a volume of more than one million units over lifetime and includes the equipment of five all-electric SUVs with MEB components. In addition, the two companies will explore further opportunities for collaboration, opening the perspective towards a broader strategic alliance to accelerate the electrification of the Indian automotive market.

Mahindra today showcased their new electric SUV family at the Mahindra Born EV vision unveil event in Banbury, United Kingdom. The electric SUVs will be launched on the all new INGLO platform architecture and envisaged to be equipped with MEB components including the electric drivetrain, the battery system and battery cells. The Term Sheet covers all major commercial and technical terms along with a path to the potential localization of the battery system. The final supply agreement will be negotiated in a continued constructive and legally compliant way by the end of 2022.

Regarding the next step towards a possible strategic alliance for India, both companies agree to explore further potential areas of collaboration in the field of e-mobility, including vehicle projects, the localization of battery cell manufacturing and charging and energy solutions for the electric ecosystem in India.

Thomas Schmall, Volkswagen Group Board of Management member for Technology and CEO of Volkswagen Group Components, said: “We are happy that we have identified a larger scope of collaboration between our two companies. Together, Volkswagen and Mahindra can contribute significantly to the electrification of India, a huge automotive market with ambitious climate protection commitments. The MEB Electric Platform and its components are key to affordable sustainable mobility around the globe. The partnership not only demonstrates that our platform business is highly competitive, but also that the MEB is well on track to become one of the leading open platforms for e-mobility. We are thus delivering on the focus of our Volkswagen NEW AUTO strategy to make the platform business a strong pillar of our Group and to unlock future profit pools through economies of scale.”

Commenting on the announcement, Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director, Auto and Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., stated: “The signing of the techno-commercial term sheet is a significant step forward in our partnership with Volkswagen. Our purpose-built INGLO platform offers unmatched potential for growth and further customization for developing new and innovative products, not just for India, but for global markets. Our vision is to lead the electric mobility revolution in India by bringing authentic electric SUVs with cutting-edge technology, as showcased in the UK today. We are very pleased to explore further areas of potential collaboration with Volkswagen and are confident that together, we will be able to shape an exciting electric future.”

With around three million new vehicles per year, India is one of the five largest automobile markets in the world and along with China, the only region to record an increase in new registrations in the first half of 2022. The electrification of the passenger car segment is expected to gain significant momentum in the coming years.

Mahindra unveils five Electrifying SUVs under two brands based on the purpose-built INGLO platform

· Launches two EV brands –Iconic brand XUV with the Twin Peak logo in Copper and the all-new electric-only brand called BE

· Showcases five new electric SUVs based on the modular INGLO platform, using VW MEB platform components

· INGLO features one of the lightest skateboard and class-leading high energy-density batteries

· First of these e-SUVs to be launched towards end of 2024, starting with the Indian market

Chandigarh, August 16, 2022: Mahindra & Mahindra, India’s leading SUV manufacturer, today unveiled its new state-of-the-art INGLO EV platform and five e-SUVs under two EV brands showcasing its vision for the future of electric mobility.

Mahindra’s vision is to lead the electric mobility revolution in India by bringing authentic electric SUVs with cutting-edge technology, through the three key strategic pillars of Brand, Design and Technology.

Brand:

Bringing alive the sport in electric SUVs, Mahindra unveiled two new brands, created specifically to house the company’s EV portfolio – Iconic brand XUV with the Twin Peak logo in Copper and the all-new electric-only brand called BE.

The iconic brand XUV will host a range of products that builds upon the Mahindra legacy while embracing the future. With a sophisticated futuristic design, pulsating performance and dynamic innovation, it is targeted at customers who have the passion to live life beyond boundaries while making a difference.

The bold, evocative and exhilarating BE brand, with its audacious new design language will target customers who want to define their life’s journey their own way while making a difference: A brand that will let customers be who they want to be.

The manifestation of these two brands have been showcased via five e-SUVs: the XUV.e8, XUV.e9, BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09. The first four of these are to be launched between 2024 and 2026.

Design:

Common to these SUVs is the Mahindra new Heartcore design philosophy – a blend of unmissable presence, inner strength and attitude. Breaking new ground, these all-new e-SUVs will create an electrifying presence, both on the road and off it, while retaining the Mahindra core SUV heritage.

INGLO Technology:

Indian at heart and global in its reach, the INGLO platform encapsulates progressive battery technology, platform architecture, brain power and human machine interface. The name also symbolizes the flow and exchange of energy and emotion, a GLO of well-being, a system that brings complete harmony.

The cutting-edge INGLO platform will underpin all the Mahindra EVs going forward. The purpose-built platform will pack intuitive, intelligent and immersive innovations that will serve as the backbone of the Mahindra EV architecture and is the heart of its ultimate human-machine interface.

INGLO offers class-leading safety standards, exhilarating performance, excellent range and efficiency, exemplary driving dynamics, versatility and intelligent HMI. INGLO also delivers a multi-sensorial driving experience with a futuristic, augmented reality-enabled heads-up display, edge-to-edge screen, 5G network capability and Over-The-Air updates that will keep the EVs as good as new.

Dr Anish Shah, Managing Director & CEO, Mahindra Group, said, “We are proud and delighted to showcase our Born Electric vision. It provides a strategic direction that is in line with our core philosophy of ‘Rise’ – to be an organisation that will be counted among the best in the world and at the same time rise for our planet to fight against climate change. Mahindra will offer customers future-ready technology, head-turning design, world-class products and the benefits of global partnerships. By 2027, we expect that a quarter of the SUVs we sell will be electric.”

Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director – Auto and Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “Our vision of Born Electric is underpinned by the future-ready INGLO platform, two new exciting brands and the Heartcore design philosophy. The five electric SUVs provide a powerful glimpse of our strategic direction and hews to the Mahindra attitude of a racing spirit and the attitude of adventure. We aim to not only electrify the roads but also the hearts and minds of SUV aficionados in India and around the world.”

ANNEXURE

INGLO PLATFORM CAPABILITIES

1. Endless Adaptability

INGLO offers endless adaptability, an optimised architecture that gives rise to modular and scalable design, and allows Mahindra to create electric SUVs that fit consumer desires and lifestyles. Other than the versatility of INGLO, it also offers significant reduction in underbody weight, leading to one of the lightest skateboards.

2. Hyper Efficiency

A giant leap in battery science with safe and robust LFP chemistry, Mahindra electric vehicles will follow a common battery pack design with lean modules and standardised cell-to-pack technology using two different cutting-edge cell architectures – Blade and Prismatic. Offered with options ranging from 60-80 kWhr battery capacity, protected for an incredible 175 kW fast-charge and charging up to 80% in less than 30 minutes. The intelligent and efficient Battery Management System with high precision, enhanced robustness and functional safety will deliver improved range, longevity and safety. Its high number of charge-discharge cycles coupled with a long lifespan will also help reduce waste.

3. Exhilarating Performance

A compact all-in-one electric engine with motor-inverter-transmission integrated into a single unit forms the powertrain, offered with both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, developing a remarkable 170-210 kW and a whopping 250-290 kW respectively. Standstill to 100 kmph is promised in between 5 and 6 seconds.

4. Optimised Range

The exceptional performance is matched with an efficient powertrain and high-voltage systems. The powertrain is optimised to offer class-leading range, with the added advantage of an intelligent electronic brake system that offers best-in-class recuperation potential. Enhanced aerodynamics, reduced rolling resistance with 5.5 RRC tires and sophisticated zero-drag wheel bearings, high-efficiency cooling & HVAC system with minimal power consumption and best-in-class low voltage power consumption contribute to the overall efficiency.

5. Ultimate Vehicle Dynamics

A best-in-class semi-active suspension system provides not only excellent ride comfort but also enhanced handling and an immersive sporty drive experience. The dual-pinion high-power steering system ensures feather-light steering efforts, excellent returnability and precise control. The brake-by-wire technology is completely decoupled from the hydraulic

system; this allows multiple brake modes for pedal feel and recuperation. Those behind the wheel will enjoy the Intelligent Drive Modes that govern various aspects including modulation of powertrain response, suspension response, brake feel, electronic stability control intervention and many more features at the touch of a button. The aim is to make the SUV and the driver to be one.

6. Class-leading Safety

Being a leader in vehicle safety, the new Mahindra electric SUVs are designed to meet the highest vehicle safety norms and utmost safety for batteries such as GNCAP and not just limited to regulatory compliance. All the e-SUVs will come with a structural cage around the passenger cabin specially designed for reduced passenger injury. The frontal design of the Body-In-White is enhanced with three load paths and a multi-piece dash panel with reinforcement and very importantly-excellent battery protection is ensured by ultra-high strength boron steel. The new e-SUVs are tested at the world’s largest battery development and testing centre. With 5 Radars-1 Vision ADAS architecture, INGLO is futureproofed up to L2+ autonomy

7. Versatile Spaces

Slim cockpits and a flat floor create generous and flexible interiors, giving control of seat configurability and space versatility such as frunk and trunk storage. With Vehicle To Load (V2L) functionality, the car can be turned into a portable power bank, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop, or take any household appliance on the road with you.

8. HMI: Next-level Brain-power

INGLO boasts a complex neural network of built-in intelligence that performs millions of reactions and decisions per second. Leapfrogging to a centralised computation structure with three high performance computers, provides for an integrated computational platform to deploy right down to micro. INGLO leverages the cloud seamlessly by implementing an embedded 5G network capability and keeps vehicles as good as new through Over The Air updates (SOTA + FOTA). Latest systems of chips from global semiconductor vendors contribute to move to up-to-date tech nodes of semiconductor wafer processes: 200K DMIPS computing power via Dual Octa-core processor and offering 1920 x 720 pixels HD resolution. Aided by strong software partners to deliver world-class product features.

Logos

BORN ELECTRIC SUVs

XUV.e8

Launch: December 2024

Based on INGLO Platform

Dimensions: L x W x H: 4740 x 1900 x 1760 mm | Wheelbase 2762 mm

A combination of sheer performance, best-in-class technology and safety.

The intelligent all-wheel drive system along with sophisticated cabin, offers supreme ride comfort both on and off the road.

XUV.e9

Launch: April 2025

Based on INGLO Platform

Dimensions: L x W x H: 4790 x 1905 x 1690 mm | Wheelbase 2775 mm

A fearlessly modern design with the strengths of an authentic SUV combined with the aerodynamic silhouette of a coupe.

Intelligent interiors, with a view to indulge through its panoramic sky roof that warrants every bit of attention it demands.

BE.05

Launch: October 2025

Based on INGLO Platform

Dimensions: L x W x H: 4370 x 1900 x 1635 mm | Wheelbase 2775 mm

A true standout, with a taste for life to explore the impossible. It is a Sports Electric Vehicle (SEV) in the truest sense, making it a category in itself.

A racing inspired bold design complemented seamlessly by multi-sensory experiences.

BE.07

Launch: October 2026

Based on INGLO Platform

Dimensions: L x W x H: 4565 x 1900 x 1660 mm | Wheelbase 2775 mm

A family space, to explore the places you love with the people you love. Grab your cam, it’s time to make some memories.

Designed to offer a first-class experience, with versatility, configurable profiles and curated multi-sensory experiences

BE.09

Launch: TBC

Based on INGLO platform

Dimensions: TBC

A head turning SUV grand tourer with a chiseled design, dynamic roof and solid stance. Allowing four passengers a first-class experience

The Mahindra Rise philosophy

The initial idea and design for the five electric SUVs are based on Mahindra’s core philosophy Rise for Good and the three brand pillars it represents – accepting no limits, alternative thinking and driving positive change. The Rise philosophy is about attitude, a way of life, and inspiring all stakeholders to push for positive change. It gives Mahindra’s iconic brands a meaning and purpose, and instils a powerful feeling that ‘We can achieve whatever we set our minds to.’

Social Media Addresses

· Brand website: https://bornelectric.mahindra.com/

· Twitter: @born_electric

· YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxxg-Z9GD29rfgyThBwRWLA/featured

· Instagram: @mahindra_born_electric

· Facebook: http://bornelectric.mahindra.com

· Hashtag: #BornElectricVision

Mahindra inaugurates its state-of-the-art EV design studio in the UK; Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (M.A.D.E) to be a global design centre of excellence

• Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group inaugurates Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (M.A.D.E) at Banbury, Oxfordshire

• M.A.D.E forms a part of the Mahindra Global Design Network which also includes the Mahindra India Design Studio, Mumbai

• Its primary objective is to conceive the future Mahindra EV portfolio and advanced concepts

• M.A.D.E shares the campus with the Mahindra Formula E team

Chandigarh, August 16, 2022: Mahindra & Mahindra, India’s leading SUV manufacturer, today formally inaugurated its new design centre of excellence, Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (M.A.D.E), which will serve as the conceptual hotbed for the company’s portfolio of EV products.

Physically present at the heart of innovation, M.A.D.E is located at the global automotive and EV hub of Banbury, Oxfordshire. Home to Oxford University, this region is renowned for its high-end research and academic institutions. Importantly, Oxfordshire also offers access to new and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, autonomics, advanced robotics, etc. that promise to shape the future of mobility.

The primary objective of M.A.D.E, which forms part of the Mahindra Global Design Network that includes the Mahindra India Design Studio in Mumbai, is to conceive and create all future Mahindra EVs and advanced vehicle design concepts.

M.A.D.E was inaugurated by Mahindra Group Chairman, Anand Mahindra along with International Trade Minister for UK, Ranil Jayawardena.

M.A.D.E is equipped with state-of-the-art design tools, enabling it to handle end-to-end design activities including conceptualisation, 3D digital and physical modelling, Class-A surfacing, digital visualisation and Human-Machine Interface (HMI) design.

It also incorporates a complete digital visualisation suite, clay modelling studio, VR digital modelling and digital as well as physical presentation areas.

Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group said, “Mahindra Advanced Design Europe is another vital node in our neural network of innovation. In 15 short months, their work has already laid the blueprint for an electrifying future. How we play our cards today will determine the way the world is shaped tomorrow.”

International Trade Minister, UK, Jayawardena, said, “Securing investment in Britain creates jobs, boosts wages, and grows our economy. It is how we help people live better lives now and in the future, so it is fantastic to see Mahindra’s investment and expansion in Oxfordshire. We are seeking to double Anglo-Indian trade over the next decade and a free trade deal will be a significant step towards achieving that, tackling trade barriers and helping businesses in both countries to seize new opportunities”.

Mahindra & Mahindra Chief Design Officer Pratap Bose said, “Our primary mission at M.A.D.E is to give expression to our Born Electric vision. All of the technology, all of the automotive design talent, all of the state-of-the-art tools assembled here will be geared towards that objective – that is to disrupt the status quo and serve as the wellspring for Mahindra EV design and Innovation.”

With a staff strength of 30 of the brightest and most experienced talent in global automotive design, M.A.D.E is headed by award-winning automotive design veteran Cosimo Amadei. M.A.D.E has been instrumental in the development of three of the five e-SUVs to be showcased as part of Mahindra’s Born Electric launch.

Social Media Addresses

• Brand website: https://auto.mahindra.com/

• Twitter: @mahindra_auto

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MahindraAutomotive

• Instagram: @mahindra_auto

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MahindraAutomotiveIndia

• Hashtag: #ExploreTheImpossible, #TwinPeaks

Nebula by Titan pays homage to 75 years of Independence with a special edition of diamond studded timepieces

Embellished with 75 diamonds, both men’s and women’s timepieces celebrate the glorious 75 years of independence and feature intricate design elements inspired by the Ashoka Chakra

13^th August 2022, Chandigarh: Nebula, India’s first solid gold watch brand, presents a special collection to commemorate the 75th Independence Day on August 15, 2022. The exclusive collection, named Jashn 75, features 2 finely crafted timepieces embellished with 75 diamonds, a diamond for each year of independence.

The elegant men’s and women’s timepieces, named Shwetand Neel respectively, are a blend of sophisticated design and attention to detail. The dials on both Shwet and Neel feature motifs symbolising the Ashoka Chakra, an emblem which has featured prominently in our history and is a representation of progression and advancement.

Shwet, powered by an exquisite mechanical hand-wound movement, features dual tone angle cut indices on a spectacular silver white dial, with the 24 indices drawing direct inspiration from the Ashoka Chakra. Neel features a deep design story, with Mother-of-Pearl cut-outs on the dial that draw inspiration from the vibrant plumage of the peacock, our National Bird. The watch straps are designed in classic leather, with a satin blue finish for Neel.

Talking about this special collection launch, Mr. Sirish Chandrashekar, Marketing Head, Titan Company Ltd said,“Nebula by Titan, is our solid gold watches brand that celebrates India in very unique ways. Jashn 75 is a special edition collection that has been crafted to commemorate 75 years of our independence. It is symbolic of the precious feeling of freedom that we all enjoy. The finely crafted luxury timepieces, in 18k gold and diamonds, are designed for watch connoisseurs seeking refinement in horological design.”

With Neel priced at INR 2 lakhs, and Shwet priced at INR 4 lakhs, the collection will be available at the World of Titan stores and the brand website www.titan.co.in. These stunning timepieces, with the ability to complement both festive attire as well as formal wear, makes for an ideal celebratory gift.

Customers can pre-order these stunning timepieces from August 15 onwards, with the first deliveries of the timepieces starting in November.

BPCL observes ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’

– Sets up pictorial exhibitions at its 182 fuel stations across India

Chandigarh, August 13, 2022: India observes the 14^th August as the ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ in honour of the millions of people who suffered during the partition in 1947. The ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ has been envisaged to bring to light the agony, suffering and pain of millions of people who were the sufferers of partition. It is to remind the country of the largest displacement of population in the last century.

To showcase the above, the exhibition has been curated jointly by the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) and Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), which will be showcased at public places for general public to see from 10^thtill 14^th August 2022. BPCL, has joined other Oil Marketing PSUs in setting up this exhibitions at, at-least one Fuel Station in each district. BPCL has set up the exhibitions at 182 fuel stations.

These exhibitions were inaugurated by freedom fighter, prominent senior citizen and public representatives.

Meru launches FREEDOM DRIVE and Salutes the war veterans on Independence Day

~ Commits to contribute 10% of its 15th August Ride revenue to Veterans India under #FREEDOM DRIVE ~

Chandigarh, 13 August 2022: Meru, a pioneering airport brand in Indian mobility space, announced that it will be contributing 10% of its ride revenue generated on August 15^th to Veterans India, a non-governmental organization (NGO) that works with the veterans and their families. This will be done under the latest campaign titled ‘#FEEDOM DRIVE’ which salutes war veterans on the occasion of this Independence Day.

Mr. Kannan Chakravarthy, CEO, MERU says “The war veterans have been contributing to building stronger India for the last so many decades. On the occasion of India’s 75^thIndependence Day, Meru would like to appreciate the invaluable contributions of the war veterans and their families. As a small contribution, I would like to announce that we will be donating 10% of ride revenue to Veterans India which supports Veterans families and disabled veterans. We are extremely proud to be associated with these warriors who had devoted their entire lives to serving the nation. We request our customers to contribute to this cause”

Speaking on the association, Colonel HV Sharma (Retd) National Vice President of Veterans India said, “The fund generated by this drive would enable Veterans India to carry on with its patriotic activities. With help of organisations like Mahindra Logistics Veterans India strives to continue its activities for spreading and inculcating nationalism and patriotism across the country, especially the youth of the country”, he adds.

Commenting on the association, Mr Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group, Tweeted “A small step can go a long way. Well done @MeruCabs, for leading a cause for our army veterans, who guard our freedom, and their families for whom duty for the nation is above everything. We’re proud you are a @MahindraRise company.”

Godrej L’Affaire celebrates #RespectAllBandhans in their touching digital film on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan

Let’s pledge to #RespectAllBandhans to make the Nation a brighter place to live in.

Chandigarh, 13^th August 2022: On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, Godrej Industries Limited, through its brand-agnostic lifestyle platform – Godrej L’Affaire, has launched a digital film which encourages people to look at every relationship with love and respect. Conceptualised by the Godrej Corporate Brand & Communications team, the film aims to foster love, dignity and care with everyone just like the brother-sister bond which is celebrated on the auspicious day of Raksha Bandhan.

The sacred thread of rakhi which symbolises protection and care, can be extended to all relationships which, in turn, will help make this world a more peaceful and beautiful place. #RespectAllBandhans is a subtle nudge to people to treat and love everyone in this world equally and not limit it to just the brother-sister relationship.

The video features influencers Simone Khambatta, Salil Acharya and Shashank Sanghvi who beautifully convey the powerful message of spreading love and respect for everyone, every day.

#RespectAllBandhans

I see my brother look at me,

With love, dignity, and care.

Should respecting one another

be limited to a sibling affair?

While we have beautiful threads

to show that we care for one another,

Can we extend the same care to even a stranger?

Remember, every person we meet

is someone’s loved one too.

To respect and be respected is humanity,

it’s bigger than any other issue.

Everyone has the right to dignity,

every he, she, and they.

When you embrace each other as one,

a safer world will finds its way.

Today is a special day.

We’re celebrating Raksha Bandhan.

Let’s make this day brighter,

By pledging to Respect Bandhan.

A day where we spark unity,

And make it a loving chain reaction.

A day where we change our ways,

and redefine the world for the next generation.

I pledge to look at the world

with a filter of not only love and compassion.

I pledge to look at every person with respect in our nation.

May today be the day

respect becomes the way of living.

May today be the day

respect becomes the means of thriving.

Dear brothers and sisters

here’s wishing you a very Happy Respect Bandhan.

#RespectAllBandhans – https://youtu.be/myWhX8w4EJY

Speaking on the film, Sujit Patil, Vice President and Head- Corporate Brand and Communication, Godrej Industries Limited and Associate Companies said, “Humanity, respect and dignity are integral to one’s nature. The new digital film #RespectAllBandhans aims to spread a message to not only pledge love and protection for our siblings on this Raksha Bandhan, but also to extend this love and respect to every single person everyday as they too are someone’s loved ones. It is this goodness that will make our Nation even more stronger”.

This video will be amplified by digital content creators who will take the pledge and spread the message, by our media partners who will put it up on their respective platforms and by our business partners who will amplify it on their social media assets.

Sunstone launches India’s first-career counselling centre on wheels

The career coach will travel 4000 kms to make career counselling easy and accessible for students across 21 cities in India

Chandigarh 13 August 2022: Sunstone, one of India’s leading higher education service providers with a presence across 30 cities in 40+ institutions, has rolled out India’s first Career Counselling Centre on wheels – The Career Coach. The initiative is aimed at helpingundergraduate aspirants in choosing the right career opportunities and providing them an immersive experience of Sunstone’s offerings. After starting its journey from EMPI New Delhi, the ‘career coach’ would travel a distance of around 4000 kms covering three prominent states and 21 cities within a period of 60 days.

With this being India’s first career counselling centre on wheels, Sunstone aims to democratize career counselling for students, free of cost. Sunstone will try to help students understand their inner strengths, aptitude and aspirations and choose the right career path for themselves. As a part of its ‘Career Check’interactive test, Sunstone provides career plans for multiple career trajectories based on different career domains – both tech and non-tech. Counsellors will provide students with a snapshot of career options with respect to their aspirations and also recommend which program to choose in order to accomplish the same.

Flagging off the Career Counseling Centre on Wheels, Mr. Piyush Nangru, Co-Founder and COO, Sunstone said, “This first-of-a-kind career coach is aimed at providing a one-stop solution to student’s higher education needs. We have curated a tech-enabled immersive experience for them by using Virtual Reality and scientifically designed tests for the students to make an informed choice. At the same time, we are offering them a host of college options for their higher education. Our vision is to make higher education accessible and accountable and Sunstone Career Coach is a step in this direction.”

Through ‘ Career Counseling Centre on Wheels’, Sunstone is also giving an opportunity to a select few students to become the face of their next online campaign, apart from offering scholarships worth Rs. 10 crore and gifts worth Rs. 15 lakhs. Sunstone will roll out its#ExperiencedFresher campaign to showcase the benefits of its industry-oriented education, a campaign that displays how enabling students with a deep industry connection can drastically change their future.

Sunstone offers placement assistance, student-friendly financing options, future-ready industry-oriented training, and 360-degree learning through Sunstone extracurricular clubs and communities to students at its partner institutes.

For more information on Sunstone’s advantages, please check the website here.

Godrej & Boyce scales up its automated supply chain solutions in partnership with German based joint venture partner Körber Supply Chain

Godrej Körber targets a growth of 18% in the next 5 years

Chandigarh, 13^th August, 2022: The global warehouse automation market is expected to grow to $19.5 billion by FY25 and the pandemic has further underscored the significance of the segment. To address this growing market, a joint venture between Godrej & Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, and Germany-based Körber Supply Chain has pioneered the role of intralogistics across different sectors by offering differentiated automation solutions. Godrej Körber exceeded order intake targets with order books full in FY22 and the business further eyes 18% growth in the next 5 years owing to its successful coalition with global player Körber Supply Chain

Since the pandemic, the industry has witnessed a major shift towards adoption of automation. This, in addition to Asia emerging as a development engine for supply chain automation, Körber Supply Chain intends to increase investments in India through its Indian subsidiary, Godrej Körber in FY23.

Godrej Körber Supply Chain has achieved market growth with increased market share as a result of their strong collaboration and response to the Make-In-India policies by the government. The targeted ambitious market share is 25% by FY 2025. Due to the growth of the manufacturing sector, development of organised 3PLs, Pharma, retail, e-commerce, and food service businesses, as well as shifting consumption patterns, the government is investing in cold chain and cold storage facilities. Considering this, Godrej Körber is focussing on bulk handling in the automation industry, for leading private players as well as public-private partnership projects. Godrej & Boyce and Körber Supply Chain shared their ambitious plan to engineer automated solutions and build a self-reliant intralogistics sector in India. The business dominates a market size worth 4000 Crores.

Suunil Dabral, Senior Vice President & Business Head, Godrej Körberstated, “Godrej Körber is a system integrator and provides a broad array of automation solutions, including stacker cranes and shuttle based AS/RS solutions that let you fully control the storage of all palletized commodities without the need for manual handling, conveyors, and rail-guided vehicle systems that quickly and efficiently link even far-off places in the warehouses, autonomous robotics based solutions and IT solutions like WCS & WMS to run these systems for delivering best performance. By offering an unmatched depth and breadth of technologies and expertise, we aim to conquer supply chain complexity across sectors in India.”

Win Thian Chai, Chief Executive Officer, Körber Supply Chain (Asia) said, “Körber intends to outpace both local and global projections for intralogistics growth. Our partnership with Godrej & Boyce will enable us to work together to accomplish this goal. We want to be recognized as a systems Integrator that provides material handling solutions with sustainable technologies by improving the warehouse performances at lowest cost of ownership and enabling waste reduction and damages in the warehouses. We are optimistic that Godrej Körber would effectively translate our business ambitions into our customers’ success”

BharatPe appoints Nalin Negi as Chief Financial Officer

Chandigarh, August 13 2022: BharatPe, one of India’s largest fintech companies, today announced the appointment of Nalin Negi as its Chief Financial Officer. In his new role, Nalin will be spearheading the finance function for BharatPe and will be working towards making the company EBITDA positive by March 2023. Additionally, he will be leading financial readiness for the company as it prepares for the IPO. Nalin will be reporting to Suhail Sameer, CEO, BharatPe and will be working closely with the Board of BharatPe. In line with his extensive experience in banking and cards industry, Nalin will be working closely with the Senior Management team at BharatPe and help catapult growth across business lines. This is the second leadership announcement for BharatPe this year. In April 2022, the company had announced the appointment of Smriti Handa as the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Nalin is a one of the highly respectable names in the banking and financial services industry with over 25 years of experience across renowned brands like GE Capital and SBI Card. In his last stint, Nalin was the CFO of SBI Card (earlier known as GE Capital SBI Card) for over 10 years where he spearheaded a number of key strategic initiatives for the company including leading SBI Card’s IPO in March 2020, thereby, making it the first pure-play credit card company to list on the stock exchanges in India. Previously, Nalin was associated with American Express (India) Private Limited, EXL Service (India) Private Limited, Nestle India Limited, and ITC Limited. Nalin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Honors course) from Delhi University. He is an associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

Speaking on the appointment of Nalin, Suhail Sameer, CEO, BharatPe said, “BharatPe has been on a dream run and has clocked exponential business growth over the last year. As we focus on the next stage of growth and on building a sustainable and profitable business across both our business lines- merchant and consumer, I am confident that Nalin’s experience will be a huge asset for a new-age fintech company like ours. His in-depth knowledge of banking and financial services will help us launch and scale fintech products that are future-ready and aligned to our mission of driving financial inclusion in the country. Also, Nalin’s experience of listing SBI Card will be instrumental for us as we aim to go public in FY25. I am excited to welcome Nalin to the team and look forward to partnering with Nalin to build BharatPe as one of the most renowned fintech brands in the world.”

Added Nalin Negi, CFO, BharatPe, “BharatPe’s growth story has been phenomenal. The company has become a preferred and trusted partner for millions of offline merchants in just 4 years of launch. It has been the flagbearer for digital payments in India and has also been at the forefront of solving the credit gap for SMEs and offline retailers in the country, having closed Q1 of FY23 with over INR 3600 Cr in total loans facilitated in the first quarter of FY23 and US$ 18 bn+ in annualized TPV in payments. The next couple of years are exciting as the company aims to hit profitability and go public, and build India’s first truly Digital Bank. I am looking forward to partnering with Suhail and the leadership team at BharatPe for the next stage of growth of the company. I am hoping that we will script a great success story in BharatPe- one that will be a case study for new India.”

This Raksha Bandhan, surprise your sister with perfect jewellery gifting options by Kalyan Jewellers

Chandigarh, 13 August 2022: Raksha Bandhan is just around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate the beautiful bond between a brother and sister. This special day is the time of the year when petty fights, arguments, and bossing around give way to prayers for the blessing of siblings. Finding a perfect gift for your loved one could be really difficult and confusing. To clear this confusion, Kalyan Jewellers has created a mini-list of the most stylish and trendy statement jewellery pieces you can gift your sister to show them how much they mean to you.

Celebrating the festival, the jewellery brand has announced up to Rs. 10,000 off on every Rs. 1 lakh worth of studded jewellery purchases*. Furthermore, Kalyan Jewellers will be giving away instant discount of up to Rs. 300 off per gram on making charges* as well as Rs. 50 more per gram on Old Gold Exchange*. Customers can avail the exciting range of offers from across Kalyan Jewellers’ showrooms in India. The one-of-its-kind offers are valid until 30^th September 2022.

This Raksha Bandhan, spoil your sister with love with some glamorous gifting options by Kalyan Jewellers.