Morfydd Clark addresses the past mistakes of Galadriel, “There’s a desperation to redeem herself”, ahead of Season 2 of The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power

When the first installment of The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power released, it took audiences back to the glorious world of Middle Earth, specifically conjuring the second age. The series proved to be more than just forging the rings but showcasing the early adventures of Galadriel (played by Morfydd Clark) in her quest to end the evil. Picking up from the events that went down in season one, Galadriel failed to realise that Halbrand was in fact the one villain who will be the dark lord of Middle Earth - Sauron. As the show gears up for the second season, the ethereal Elf takes on a more battle-ready form, especially after her monumental miscalculation last time around, she’ll be donning her armour and heading back into the fray in Season 2.

Speaking about it, Clark said, “She really messed up so badly. There’s a desperation to redeem herself, and through redeeming herself protect Middle-earth, which is in more danger than it ever has been. Now she’s seen the whites of the eyes of the person who’s bringing it all down, she’s all revved up,”. The other thing Galadriel possesses in Season 2 is Nenya, one of the three Elven rings of power; what exactly that means for her is something audiences will get to explore as the show continues. “Even Sauron doesn’t know exactly what they’ll do. But it’s an extra-weird connection between Galadriel and the baddest man in Middle-earth. The scope is just going to become bigger and bigger with every season,” Clark teases. “It’s constantly on this big trajectory to massiveness.”

The second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is produced by showrunners and executive producers J.D. Payne & Patrick McKay. They are joined by executive producers Lindsey Weber, Callum Greene, Justin Doble, Jason Cahill, and Gennifer Hutchison, along with co-executive producer and director Charlotte Brändström, producers Kate Hazell and Helen Shang, and co-producers Clare Buxton, Andrew Lee, Glenise Mullins, and Matthew Penry-Davey. Additional Season Two directors include Sanaa Hamri and Louise Hooper. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season Two will be available in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada exclusively on Prime Video from August 29 onwards. 

ABOUT THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power brings to screens for the very first time the heroic legends of the fabled Second Age of Middle-earth's history. This epic drama is set thousands of years before the events of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings books, and will take viewers back to an era in which great powers were forged, kingdoms rose to glory and fell to ruin, unlikely heroes were tested, hope hung by the finest of threads, and the greatest villain that ever flowed from Tolkien’s pen threatened to cover all the world in darkness. Beginning in a time of relative peace, the series follows an ensemble cast of characters, both familiar and new, as they confront the long-feared reemergence of evil to Middle-earth. From the darkest depths of the Misty Mountains, to the majestic forests of the elf capital of Lindon, to the breathtaking island kingdom of Númenor, to the farthest reaches of the map, these kingdoms and characters will carve out legacies that live on long after they are gone. 

The first season of The Rings of Power has been an unprecedented success, viewed by more than 100 million people worldwide, with more than 32 billion minutes streamed. The highly anticipated series attracted more than 25 million global viewers on its first day, marking the biggest premiere in the history of Prime Video, and also debuted as the No. 1 show on Nielsen’s overall streaming chart in its opening weekend. The show has driven more Prime sign-ups worldwide during its launch window than any other previous content to date. The season finale also created a global cultural moment, with multiple series-themed hashtags, including #TheRingsofPower and others, trending in 27 countries across Twitter for over 426 cumulative hours throughout the weekend.

 

All eight first season episodes of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power are now available to stream exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories in multiple languages.

Makers of beautiful, Stanley Lifestyles makes a beautiful debut on the exchange; lists at 35% premium

 Friday, June 28, 2024: Shares of Stanley Lifestyles Limited makes a beautiful debut on the exchange, lists at 35% premium. 

The scrip listed Rs 499 per share on BSE, a premium of 35.23% and Rs 494.95 per share on NSE, a premium of 34.13%. The company's share price closed at Rs 474 per share on the BSE, a 28.46% premium, and at Rs 479 per share on the NSE, a 29.81% premium.

As per NSE, the total quantity traded stood at 216.11 lakh shares, on BSE the total Quantity stood at 55.85 lakh shares. Total Turnover (BSE+NSE) on Day 1 stood at Rs 1,330.47 crore. 

Sunil Suresh, Managing Director, Stanley Lifestyles Ltd said "We are thrilled to announce the listing of our shares. This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team and the unwavering support of our stakeholders. As we embark on this new chapter, we remain committed to delivering value to our shareholders and driving sustainable growth. We look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead and are excited to continue our journey with the support of our investors and partners."

The Market Capitalization of the Company at today’s closing price stood at Rs. 2,702.62 Crore as per BSE and Rs. 2,731.12 Crore as per NSE.

The Initial Public Offering of Stanley Lifestyles Limited was subscribed 95.75 times. Qualified Institutional Buyer Portion was subscribed 222.10 times, Non-Institutional Investors Portion was subscribed 117.96 times, whereas Retail Portion was subscribed 17.46 times.

Bengaluru-based, Stanley Lifestyles Ltd is country’s largest super-premium and luxury furniture brand. The Company’s product portfolio includes sofas, cabinetry and furniture for living rooms, dining rooms, family rooms, kitchens, bedrooms (including bedding products), and home offices, offering complete home solutions including installations. Over the years, it has transformed into a comprehensive provider of home solutions and are the only super-premium and luxury Indian brand that provide a wide range of home solutions offerings, such as sofas, arm chairs, kitchen cabinets, beds, mattresses and pillows, amongst others.

Stanley is the fourth largest player in the home furniture segment in India in terms of revenue in Fiscal 2023. It is among the first few Indian companies to venture into the super-premium and luxury furniture segment and one of the few Indian company present across various price points, i.e., super-premium, luxury and ultra-luxury segment, through its various brands. 

Over the years, the brand has evolved from a sales-focused model to a design-led operation and has become a comprehensive provider of home solutions. It stands as the only super-premium and luxury Indian brand offering a wide range of home solution offerings, including sofas, armchairs, kitchen cabinets, beds, mattresses, and pillows, among others. 

Axis Capital Limited, ICICI Securities Limited, JM Financial Limited, and SBI Capital Markets Limited are the book running lead managers and KFin Technologies Limited is the registrar to the offer. The equity shares are proposed to be listed on BSE and NSE.

Nora Fatehi joins Varun Tej in Hyderabad for their highly-anticipated film ‘Matka

Global sensation Nora Fatehi is set to make her mark as a lead actress in the Telugu film industry, taking on a pivotal role in the upcoming high-budget Telugu film, ‘Matka’. Starring alongside Varun Tej and Meenakshi Chaudhary, her debut into the industry as an actor is definitely generating considerable buzz among fans and critics alike.

‘Matka,’ directed by Karuna Kumar, is being touted as a pan-India film with a grand vision. The filmmakers are sparing no expense to create a visually stunning experience, dedicating a substantial Rs. 15 crores solely to constructing elaborate sets at Ramoji Film City (RFC) in Hyderabad. These sets meticulously recreate the vintage charm and essence of Vizag, promising to transport audiences back in time. 

Director Karuna Kumar has crafted a captivating script inspired by real-life events that once shook the nation. The commitment to detail and authenticity is evident in the making videos, which highlight the film's elaborate production design.

The shooting schedule of ‘Matka’ is currently underway. The film has already completed two schedules and is in the midst of a 35-day-long intensive shoot at RFC. The initial 14 days were filmed in Hyderabad, with the following four days taking place in the scenic city of Vizag. The total filming schedule is estimated to be around 20-25 days.

As ‘Matka’ continues its production, fans eagerly await the release of this ambitious project, excited to see Nora Fatehi's debut in the South Indian film industry alongside Varun Tej and Meenakshi Chaudhary. She is also said to be working on a music video for an international song alongside pop star Jason Derulo!

Link - https://www.instagram.com/p/C8q4lQii1Oq/?igsh=Z3E4aHpyZHNpdXFx

Nxtra by Airtel joins RE100, commits to becoming a 100% renewable energy data centre company

 Becomes the first data centre in India and the 14th Indian company to join RE100

 Firmly establishes Nxtra’s commitment to become a net-zero company by 2031

 

Mumbai, June 27, 2024: Nxtra by Airtel, one of India’s leading data centre companies, has joined the RE100 initiative - a flagship global initiative led by Climate Group in partnership with CDP – and committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity. 

 

With this, Nxtra becomes the only data centre organisation in India to have pledged to RE100 and the 14th Indian company to achieve this milestone, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability and its aim of becoming net-zero by 2031. 

 

The company has significantly increased its renewable energy use and has contracted 422,000 MWh renewable energy till date. In FY 2023-24, Nxtra saved ~ 156,595 tCO2e emissions by sourcing renewable energy through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Captive Solar Rooftop Plants.  

 

Ashish Arora, CEO — Nxtra by Airtel, said, “We are an environmentally responsible brand and have been increasingly adopting clean energy alternatives. We are on a healthy trajectory towards achieving our net-zero goals of 2031 and are happy to become a part of the RE100 initiative with a commitment to 100% renewable electricity.”  

 

Atul Mudaliar, Director of Systems Change – India, said, “Despite being highly energy intensive, data centres are overlooked for their emissions. It is inspiring to see Nxtra taking the lead in adopting best practices to reduce their carbon footprint. Nxtra’s initiative to source renewable energy for their operations will be a fitting example for data centre companies to accelerate the journey to a cleaner future. We are delighted to welcome Nxtra by Airtel to RE100.”

 

Nxtra by Airtel has sustainability at the core of its business operations and has been dedicated towards building a greener tomorrow in line with its mission to be ‘Responsible by Choice and Sustainable by Design.’ As part of this, the company has implemented a multifaceted approach that combines technological innovation, operational excellence and comprehensive interventions to ensure operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. It has adopted multiple interventions to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across its operations and become net-zero by FY2031. 

Nxtra by Airtel has the largest network of data centres in India - Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Chennai, Bhubaneswar with 12 large and 120 edge data centres across the country. For more details, visit www.nxtra.in

***

About Bharti Airtel

Headquartered in India, Airtel is a global communications solutions provider with over 500 million customers in 17 countries across South Asia and Africa. The company ranks amongst the top three mobile operators globally and its networks cover over two billion people. Airtel is India’s largest integrated communications solutions provider and the second largest mobile operator in Africa. Airtel’s retail portfolio includes high-speed 4G/5G mobile broadband, Airtel Xstream Fiber that promises speeds up to 1 Gbps with convergence across linear and on-demand entertainment, streaming services spanning music and video, digital payments and financial services. For enterprise customers, Airtel offers a gamut of solutions that includes secure connectivity, cloud and data center services, cyber security, IoT, Ad Tech and cloud-based communication. For more details, visit www.airtel.com

PLATINUM LOVE BANDS: PERFECT FOR EVERY UNIQUE LOVE STORY

~Celebrate your relationship milestones with exquisite platinum love bands~

Mumbai: Every love story is unique, weaving its own tale of emotions and memories. Whether your love is rooted in authenticity, defined by unwavering support, celebrated in imperfections, or thrives on adventure, there's a special pair of platinum love bands designed to reflect and celebrate your bond.

And what better way to celebrate a unique love story than with the metal of love? Cast in 95% pure and rare platinum, Platinum Love Bands are the ultimate symbol of love. embodying modern values such as respecting individuality, sharing responsibilities equally, transcending traditional roles and transcending traditional roles. Known as the ‘metal of love’ platinum resonates with the new-age values that define younger generation’s interpretation of love and togetherness.

This season, platinum love bands are capturing hearts and setting trends. Renowned for their enduring beauty and unmatched durability, they offer couples seeking timeless elegance and contemporary style. Choosing platinum love bands means embracing a blend of tradition and modernity, ensuring your symbol of love remains exquisite for a lifetime.

Speaking on the latest trends when it comes to engagement rings set in platinum, Pallavi Sharma, Business Director, Platinum Guild International (PGI)- India said, "Influenced by global trends, Platinum Love Bands have become popular in engagement rings. Key trends include the ‘Modern Vintage’ aesthetic, blending traditional and contemporary designs, ‘Three Stone’ or 'Trinity' rings symbolizing enduring love, and the celebrity-favored ‘Toi Et Moi’ style, pairing two gems for intimate connections. Couples are also choosing gemstones beyond diamonds, exploring various cuts, colors, and bespoke designs. This includes colored gemstones like sapphires, tourmalines, and emeralds, fancy cuts such as ovals and Asschers, unique elements like enamel and colored rhodium accents, and personalized touches like vintage details and engravings."

LOVE STORY #1: PLATINUM LOVE BANDS FOR THE COUPLE WHOSE LOVE IS IMPERFECTLY PERFECT

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Asymmetrically designed Platinum Love Bands celebrate the beauty in imperfections, reminding couples to love and accept each other even on those not-so-perfect days.

LOVE STORY #2: PLATINUM LOVE BANDS FOR THE COUPLE WHOSE LOVE IS ANCHORED IN STRENGTH

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Featuring a radiant central motif with a sparkling centre, these platinum love bands symbolize how love illuminates the world, echoing the unwavering power of love.

 

LOVE STORY #3: PLATINUM LOVE BANDS FOR THE COUPLE WHOSE LOVE THRIVES ON AUTHENTICITY

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Blending ageless Greek motifs with contemporary design, these platinum love bands include a studded centre that symbolizes the truth at the heart of love.

 Whether you prefer classic, intricate, or contemporary designs, Platinum Love Bands by PGI India provide endless options to express your unique love story. Available across leading jewellery retail stores in India, these bands ensure your commitment shines with the timeless elegance of platinum.

Website: https://platinumdaysoflove.com/

When women do extraordinary things—it feels amazing” says Tahira Kashyap Khuranna , director of Upcoming Film Sharmajee Ki Beti

The heartwarming trailer of Prime Video’s upcoming slice-of-life comedy-drama, Sharmajee Ki Beti, has sparked palpable excitement among audiences about its release. Written and directed by multi-talented Tahira Kashyap Khurrana, the film explores the aspirations, dreams, and coming-of-age moments of three middle-class women from diverse backgrounds, who share one thing in common – the ‘Sharma’ surname. This highly anticipated film serves as a significant milestone for Tahira as it marks her directorial debut. Ahead of the film's global premiere on June 28, Tahira got candid about her experience and thoughts behind creating  Sharmajee Ki Beti.

"With Sharmajee Ki Beti, I aimed to capture various phases of a woman's life, featuring characters who are 13, in their 20s, and in their late 30s to early 40s. The issues they face are small, not earth-shattering; they're not saving the world but perhaps saving their own, which means everything to them.” - Said Writer and Director Tahira Kashyap Khurrana  of Sharmajee Ki Beti. “The goal was to make audiences fall in love with these characters and realize that they can have fascinating lives. By focusing on female protagonists and perspectives, viewers might discover a richer variety of cinema, and I love it when women do extraordinary things—it feels amazing.”

Presented by Applause Entertainment, and produced by Ellipsis Entertainment Production, Sharmajee Ki Beti stars Sakshi Tanwar, Divya Dutta, and Saiyami Kher in the lead roles, along with Vanshika Taparia, Arista Mehta, Sharib Hashmi, and Parvin Dabas in pivotal roles. The film will premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 200 countries and territories worldwide on June 28.

Apollo Navi Mumbai Honoured Best in Clinical Excellence & Patient Care at Mid-Day Health & Wellness Icons 2024 Awards

Navi Mumbai, 27 June 2024 – Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai is thrilled to announce its distinction as the Best Hospital for Clinical Excellence & Patient Care at the prestigious Mid-Day Health & Wellness Icons 2024 Awards. Rahul Shukla (Business Head, Mid-day infomedia Ltd), Bhagyashree (Actress), Mugdha Godse (Actress), Dr.Kiran Shingote Unit Head of Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai Dr.Kiran Shingote, Unit Head of Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, accepted this esteemed accolade with gratitude on behalf of the entire hospital team.

Reflecting on this achievement, Dr. Kiran Shingote Unit Head of Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai shared, "We are deeply humbled and proud to be recognized as the Best Hospital for Clinical Excellence & Patient Care. This award reaffirms our steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare services that prioritize the well-being and recovery of every patient entrusted to our care."

Arunesh Punetha CEO - Western Region, Apollo Hospitals expressed with heartfelt emotion,"Receiving the Best Hospital for Clinical Excellence & Patient Care award is a profound validation of the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of our entire staff. At Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, we are committed every day to setting new benchmarks in healthcare excellence and patient-centered care. This recognition deeply motivates us to persist in our mission of delivering compassionate and world-class healthcare services to our community."

The Mid-Day Health & Wellness Icons Awards celebrate organizations and individuals who exemplify outstanding contributions to healthcare and wellness, setting new benchmarks for excellence in the industry.

Bank of Baroda signs MOU with Naval Dockyard, Mumbai for Baroda Military Salary Package

Benefits include Personal Accident Insurance Cover and special offers on Yoddha Retail Loans for Salaried and Pensioner Naval civilian employees

Mumbai, June 26, 2024: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Naval Dockyard, Mumbai to extend the Baroda Military Salary Package offerings to its Salaried and Pensioner Naval civilian employees. The MOU covers benefits including enhanced free comprehensive Personal Accident Insurance Cover (PAI), special offers on Yoddha Retail Loans, Debit and Credit Cards and a host of other benefits. 

The MOU was signed by Commodore Ratnish Satia, General Manager (HR),  Naval Dockyard and Shri Sunil Kumar Sharma, General Manager & Zonal Head - Mumbai Zone, Bank of Baroda.

The Baroda Military Salary Package offers many benefits to the Naval Dockyard, including Personal Accident Insurance Death Cover up to Rs.1.05 crore in case of accidental death on duty and up to Rs.90 lakh off duty. In addition, it provides Permanent Total Disability cover up to Rs.60 lakh. 

Shri Sunil Kumar Sharma, General Manager and Zonal Head – Mumbai Zone, Bank of Baroda said, “We are delighted to enter into an MOU with Naval Dockyard, Mumbai and look forward to serving the institution and its employees by providing a full range of banking products, backed by the highest standards of customer service.” 

Commodore AS Ahluwalia, Asst. General Manager (P&A), Naval Dockyard, Shri Manoj Gupta, Deputy General Manager (BD), Mumbai Zone, Brig (Dr) Sanjeev Devasthali (Retd), Defence Banking Advisor, Mumbai Zone, Shri V. B Jhalani, Regional Head (Mumbai Metro South Region), Mumbai Zone and Shri Vishal Gupta, Zonal Business Development Manager, Mumbai Zone, Bank of Baroda were also present during the signing ceremony amongst others.

About Bank of Baroda

Founded on 20th July, 1908 by Sir Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Bank of Baroda is one of the leading commercial banks in India. At 63.97% stake, it is majorly owned by the Government of India. The Bank serves its global customer base of ~165 million through over 70,000 touch points spread across 17 countries in five continents and through its various digital banking platforms, which provide all banking products and services in a seamless and hassle-free manner. The Bank’s vision matches the aspirations of its diverse clientele base and seeks to instil a sense of trust and security in all their dealings with the Bank.

· Visit us at www.bankofbaroda.in 

· Facebook https://www.facebook.com/bankofbaroda/  

· Twitter https://twitter.com/bankofbaroda

· Instagram https://www.instagram.com/officialbankofbaroda/

· YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdf14FHPLt7omkE9CmyrVHA 

· LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/bankofbaroda/

Frequent flyers facing sudden hearing loss disorder in India

Mumbai- Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss SNHL can strike anybody, even the healthy physique, with no apparent warning as per medical experts in Mumbai.  Well-known playback singer Alka Yagnik recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with a rare form of hearing loss, a disorder which has forced her to cancel all her concerts. Loud noise, smoking, alcohol consumption, comorbidities like diabetes, autoimmune disorders like arthritis, and cancer drugs can also impair hearing suddenly. Change in the middle ear pressure while scuba diving or flying (frequent flyers) can damage the inner ear, causing sudden but temporary deafness. If this happens repeatedly, deafness can become permanent. Giving more information on this Dr. Binhi Desai ENT and Voice Surgeon- Otorhinolaryngologist, Founder of 'SWAR Voice and Swallowing clinic' at Apex Superspeciality Hospital, Borivali, says, Viral Sudden onset Sensorineural Hearing Loss ( SSNHL) is an ENT emergency condition, which is characterized by rapid onset of hearing loss or a progressive loss over 12-24 hours. Certain viruses such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), herpes zoster virus(HZV), HIV, hepatitis virus, measles virus, rubella virus, mumps virus, Lassa virus, and enterovirus are commonly associated with the condition. During the COVID pandemic, there were many cases of sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss. The incidence of SSNHL is 5 to 20 cases per 100,000 people per year. The patient complains of sudden onset hearing loss over 12-24 hours.

Dr. Binhi Desai ENT and Voice Surgeon further added, it can be unilateral or bilateral. One must visit an ENT surgeon at the earliest, since 72 hours is a golden period. Results are better if treatment is started within the first 1-2 weeks. There are multiple treatment options available. The treatment is mainly in the form of steroids, vasodilators, anti-viral, antibiotics. Intra- tympanic steroid injection is a novel technique and a very useful procedure which gives excellent results along with intravenous treatment. The prognosis is guarded. The earlier the treatment is started, the better is the prognosis. If the above treatment fails, hearing aids, cochlear implant and assistive hearing devices can be offered.

Apex Group of Hospitals is a chain of Hospitals managed and run by expert Medical Professionals with experience of 25 years. Currently Apex group of Hospitals manage more than 350+ beds and provide qualitative healthcare services to the people of Mumbai and surrounding areas. Apex Hospitals is located in Borivali, Kandivali & Mulund.

www.apexgroupofhospitals.com

 

KONE India Announces Grand Opening of its New Office in Kalyan, Maharashtra

Kalyan , June 26, 2024: KONE Elevator India, a fully owned subsidiary of KONE Corporation, is expanding its footprint and establishing a new office in Kalyan, Maharashtra, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth and expansion strategy. The new office’s location has been chosen strategically with customer-centricity as the top priority. 

Located in 402/403, Seasons Business Centre, Shivaji Chowk, Kalyan, the new office emphasizes KONE's commitment to improve the flow of urban life and covers all aspects of business such as, sales, installation, service, AMC and Modernisation, to support increasing customer demand and expectations in the state of Maharashtra thereby delivering exceptional value for the customers.

This expansion will enable KONE to better serve its valued customers and partners in Maharashtra, further solidifying its position as a pioneer in the elevator and escalator industry. 

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Mr. Amit Gossain, Managing Director, KONE Elevators India, said "Maharashtra is an important market for us, and we are excited to expand our presence here. We already have multiple offices in Maharashtra.  This expansion reflects our commitment to our customers and stakeholders in the Kalyan area. By establishing an office here, we will come even closer to customers and will continue to offer superior service and support while reinforcing our commitment to excellence and innovation. We are committed to providing innovative and sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. In the coming years, the country will need even bigger focus on urban development and our workforce is well equipped to lead this technological advancement and infrastructure development.

I take this opportunity to thank our customers for their immense trust on us. It is their continued support and belief in KONE Culture and Values, that drive us to consistently evolve, innovate and adapt to the ever-changing customer needs.”

KONE has a good presence in West part of India with offices in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Pune, Nasik, Nagpur, Amravati, Kolhapur, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Raipur, Indore and Bhopal. Expanding brand presence is a crucial aspect of business growth and success. By investing in an expanded office, the company aims to improve productivity, boost employee morale, heighten brand image and enhance customer experience and growth.    

The firm takes pride in being the front-runner in sustainability, innovation and technology in the elevator and escalator industry. Innovation is at the heart of KONE’s business, and the company has been constantly investing in research and development to bring cutting-edge solutions to the market. KONE strives to create products and services that meet the evolving needs of their customers and end-users, while also delivering exceptional performance and reliability.

OnePlus Launches New OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G, Delivering a Flagship-Level Longer, Brighter, and Smoother Experience Beyond All Expectations

Delivering an all-round flagship-level user experience with a suite of advanced features, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G offers users the same unparalleled level of performance that was once exclusive to higher-end devices, on an unbeatable budget.

 

Mumbai, 26 June 2024: Global technology brand, OnePlus, today officially launched the new OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G in India. Featuring a 5,500mAh High-capacity Battery, 80W SUPERVOOC Fast Charging, a 120Hz Super-bright 2,100 nits AMOLED Display, Aqua Touch, and a Sony LYTIA 600 Camera with OIS, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G delivers a flagship-rivalling long-lasting and bright experience that exceeds all expectations.

“We are thrilled to introduce the new OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G — a value phone that incorporates our flagship specifications and technologies to redefine the benchmark for its price range,” said by Kinder Liu, President and COO of OnePlus. “OnePlus is dedicated to solving user pain points to deliver real improvements in the smartphone user experiences. With long-lasting battery life, exceptional fast charging, a captivating display, and outstanding photography capabilities, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G brings users OnePlus’ iconic flagship-level fast and long-lasting experience all at an unbeatable price.”

 

Flagship-level Battery Performance

Designed to go all day and night, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is equipped with a high-capacity battery and one of the best flash charging configurations in its price range.

 

Thanks to a large 5,500mAh battery, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G can provide up to 20.1 hours of YouTube video playback, 47.62 hours of video calls, or two days of regular use on a full charge, allowing users to enjoy a long-lasting, smooth smartphone experience without any anxiety about battery life. Upgrades in flash charging and battery technology also mean that the Nord CE4 Lite 5G can provide a day’s power in ~20 minutes with 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging, ensuring longer periods of use with less charging time required.

With the OnePlus Battery Health Engine, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G also helps to preserve battery longevity and prevent premature battery ageing by optimizing charging speeds according to each user’s individual charging and phone usage habits. Aided by deep-thinking AI, the battery has been designed to retain optimal capacity for up to 1,600 charging cycles, meaning users can continue to enjoy their OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G for longer without worrying about the need to replace the battery.

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G also features handy 5W reverse charging, which can be used to charge other devices such as audio devices directly from the phone’s battery.

 

All-round Brighter and Smoother Experiences

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G comes with a 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display that boasts a peak brightness of 2,100 nits thanks to the use of the same illumination material featured on the OnePlus 11. The 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display delivers improvements in illumination, color uniformity, viewing angle, and lifespan compared with the previous generation LCD technology, while a 60/120Hz refresh rate provides smoother viewing experiences at all times.

 

For the first time on a smartphone in its price range, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G introduces the innovative Aqua Touch to its screen. By improving touch accuracy and precision when the screen is wet, Aqua Touch ensures users can continue to operate the phone as normal when outside in the rain, or with sweat on their hands while in the middle of an intense gaming session. 

 

Featuring the Snapdragon® 695 5G Mobile Platform powered by OnePlus’ proprietary Trinity Engine, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G provides enhanced connectivity to ensure uninterrupted connections, faster file sharing, stable gaming, and wicked-fast download speeds of up to 2.0 Gbps.

 

With 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 256GB of UFS2.2 Storage, plus support for up to 2TB of expandable storage via the MicroSD slot, the phone offers a speedy experience with enhanced stability that reduces the likelihood of apps freezing or crashing when processing ramps up. With the help of the server-level RAM-Vitalization technology, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G can keep up to 26 applications alive in the background while providing smooth transitions when switching between multiple apps. With ROM-Vitalization, the phone also guarantees the same iconic OnePlus fast and smooth experience for as long as 48 months.

 

To provide a more immersive audio experience when playing games, watching videos, or listening to music, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G features impressive Dual Stereo Speakers. With just a press of the volume key, the volume can be increased by up to 300%. Using the 3.5mm headphone jack, users can also enjoy high-quality audio with a good pair of wired headphones.

Shoot Better with an Outstanding Camera System

One of the biggest pain points for value smartphone users is the lack of a high-quality main camera capable of capturing exciting everyday moments.

 With its 50MP LYTIA 600 main camera sensor with OIS, plus a 2MP Depth-assist Camera and 16MP Front Camera, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G provides photography enthusiasts with an entirely upgraded photography experience to capture the best moments in life.  

 

The phone also supports 2x In-sensor zoom by cropping the 50MP LYT-600 main camera sensor to capture details in natural landscapes with enhanced clarity and precision. With the help of the 2MP Depth-assist Camera, the LYT-600’s 2X In-sensor zoom, and more intelligent edge detection, it’s never been easier to take portrait-style photos with the kind of realistic bokeh effects and sharp subject isolation that are guaranteed to make images stand out.

 

Simple, Durable Design

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is available in three colorways —Super Silver, Mega Blue and Ultra Orange. Super Silver is crafted with mirror-like metallic gradient transitions on the sides, creating fluid angles and captivating diffuse reflections that evoke a sense of elegance and power.  In addition to being highly resistant to fingerprints, the distinct and eye-catching Mega Blue meanwhile is the most vivid shade of blue to ever grace a OnePlus phone. The Ultra Orange is a fiery burnt orange colourway which gives off strong autumn sunset vibes but looks fantastic all year around.

All three finishes are brought to life with tough, solid, and bold designs featuring the familiar OnePlus style and build quality.

Pre-installed with OxygenOS 14, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is faster and smoother than ever before thanks to new updates including refreshed animations when opening and closing applications, a new notification bar, new screen unlock animations, and screen-off gestures. OxygenOS 14 also includes a system-level Smart Cutout feature that can be used to quickly edit photos, customize cutout content, and share them with a simple tap. Smart Cutout also supports multi-subject recognition, enabling each individual subject to be accurately recognized and extracted even in group photos.

 

Price and Availability

 

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G will go on sale in India from Thursday, 27th June 2024 at 12 PM. The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G will be available in two variants 8 GB + 128 GB at INR 19,999 and 8 GB + 256 GB at INR 22,999 on oneplus.in, OnePlus Store App, OnePlus Experience Stores, Amazon.in, Reliance Digital, Croma & other offline partner stores.

● Customers can avail INR 1000 discount with ICICI Bank & OneCard Credit Cards & EMI and 3 months No Cost EMI on select bank cards. 

● Students can avail an additional discount of INR 250 when purchased from oneplus.in, and OnePlus Store App.

● All new Jio postpaid customers can avail of benefits of up to INR 2250 on the purchase of the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G

● Customers can also avail 6 months no cost EMI with Bajaj Finserv, ICICI Bank Consumer Finance  & HDBFS Consumer Loans

On 27th June 2024, from 12 PM onwards the Super Silver and Mega Blue variants will be available for customers. Ultra Orange will be available at a later date. Stay tuned for more updates.

About OnePlus India : 

OnePlus is a global mobile technology brand that challenges conventional concepts of technology. Founded on the “Never Settle” mantra, OnePlus creates exquisitely designed devices with premium build quality and high-performance hardware. OnePlus thrives on cultivating strong bonds and growing alongside its community of users and fans. 

For any media queries, please contact: indiaprteam@oneplus.com

For more information, please visit OnePlus.com or follow us on:  

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Flavors of Mumbai: Exploring the City's Most Iconic Eateries

 

Mumbai isn't just a city, it is a sensory explosion. Its food reflects its diverse heritage, it is a culinary hotspot where various flavors and lively cuisine cultures merge. Whether you choose the spicy comfort of South Indian coconut rice or the creamy richness of North Indian paneer butter masala, Mumbai's eateries provide a symphony of flavors to satisfy your taste buds. Discover these 4 must-try restaurants today:

 

1. Haldiram’s:

Haldiram’s is a renowned name in Indian Cuisine, and quite famous for its sweets and savories. The Haldiram's restaurant situated in Malad West, Mumbai, offers a delightful experience with a blend of vibrant ambiance. Its modern yet cozy interiors, with warm lighting and tasteful decor, create a relaxing space for families, friends, and anyone craving a delicious Indian meal. Their diverse food options range from classic chaats like Pani Puri and Bhel Puri to hearty meals such as Chole Bhature and Paneer Tikka, each item reflects authentic flavors prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant offers more than just a meal, whether people are indulging in savory bites, having a full dinner, or savoring traditional sweets, they can expect an authentic taste experience accompanied by genuine hospitality and a comfortable atmosphere.

2. Aaswad:

Aaswad is a popular restaurant situated in Dadar, Mumbai, known for its authentic Maharashtrian cuisine and traditional ambiance with wooden furniture, subtle lighting, and stylish décor creating a cozy and homely atmosphere. Aaswad is well-known for its detailed menu, which features a variety of Maharashtrian delicacies such as Misal Pav, a spicy curry made with sprouted lentils served with pav and garnished with farsan and chopped onions. Other dishes include Poha, Thali Peeth, Puran Poli, Sabudana Vada, and many more. A dinner at Aaswad is more than just satisfying hunger; it is also an opportunity to experience Maharashtra's rich culinary heritage. Whether it's spicy misal pav for breakfast or comforting puran poli for dessert, individuals to Aaswad can expect a journey through flavors that are deeply rooted in tradition and prepared with love.

 

3. Tanjore Tiffin Room

Tanjore Tiffin Room, with locations in Versova and Bandra, Mumbai, provides a unique South Indian dining experience that combines traditional flavors with a modern dining setting. The décor often consists of wooden furnishings, colorful artwork, and gentle lighting, resulting in a peaceful and pleasant feeling. Tanjore Tiffin Room's menu pays attention to Tanjore's unique and tasty cuisine, with a variety of dishes rich in spices and made with authentic ingredients. Their menu focuses on traditional South Indian cuisine, particularly from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Some popular dishes are Kothu Parotta, Masala Dosa, Plain Dosa, Rava Dosa, Uttapams, and Idli varieties. It offers an immersive dining experience that takes diners on a culinary journey through South Indian flavors.

 

4. Swati Snacks

 

Swati Snacks is a popular restaurant in Mumbai, known for its delightful and authentic Gujarati and Rajasthani vegetarian cuisine. Swati Snacks has several locations in Mumbai, including major ones in Tardeo and Nariman Point. Both locations are widely accessible and well-connected by public transit, making them ideal for both locals and tourists to visit. The seating is designed to maximize comfort and accessibility, making it ideal for a casual dinner or a quick bite. Some of the signature dishes that have become consumers' favorites are Panki a traditional Gujarati meal in which a rice flour batter is cooked between banana leaves, resulting in a unique and tasty snack. Other quite popular dishes are Handvo, a savory cake, Dhokla, a tangy steamed cake, Sev Puri, a famous street cuisine, and many more.

IG Drones completes drone survey at Odisha’s Puri International Airport

New Delhi, 26th June 2024: IG Drones, India’s leading drone tech and analytics company, has completed the drone survey of the upcoming Puri International Airport in Odisha. The state government had recently invited global bids for the Rs 2,203 crore project. IG Drones has completed the full survey of the airport in  2month and now it will help prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) by surveying the project through high-tech drones. The company will utilize domestically developed drones to regularly monitor the ongoing progress of work on the ground.

The company will use domestically developed drones equipped with advanced sensors to capture high-resolution images, videos, and additional data. This data is processed through their proprietary software, IG One, providing in-depth technical insights and real-time project tracking. 

Drones are increasingly valued in infrastructure projects for their efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness. They reduce reliance on manual labor, save time and costs, and are used for surveying construction progress, assessing work quality, and identifying potential issues during construction.

Expressing enthusiasm, Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO, IG Drones said, “We have surveyed a number of projects including metro rail, bullet train, and mining projects in the past and this was yet another feather in our cap. It is a proud moment for us as a company from Odisha to survey this project of Lord Jagannath. We started the work with our sophisticated and hi-tech drone technology as soon as we got the contract and as usual, our team put all the earnest efforts into mapping and surveying. We deployed our 10 drones for this project All efforts were taken regarding the safety and security of our staff as well as equipment”

The company has launched IG Drones Jaga: inspired by Lord Jagannath, the cutting-edge surveillance drone excels in security, defense, agriculture, and infrastructure monitoring. With high-res cameras and advanced sensors, its agile design ensures precise data collection and real-time surveillance. Combining innovation with reliability, it delivers unmatched performance.

Named Sri Jagannath International Airport, it’ll be constructed near Puri’s Sipasarubali area, according to reports. The project's first phase involves developing 4.6 million passengers per annum (mppa) capacity under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. It is estimated to cost Rs 2,203 crore and will cover an area of approximately 1,165 acres.

IG Drones has successfully secured numerous high-profile surveying projects, showcasing its prowess in utilizing state-of-the-art technology. The company recently secured work order to conduct drone survey at NDMC Diamond Mining Project, Panna. In April, it bagged the contract for a crucial pipeline inspection at NTPC Darlipali Thermal Power Station in Odisha, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In this way, IG Drones has secured several surveying projects using its latest technology, in the past.

Notably, IG Drones has forged strategic alliances with numerous state governments, over 100 Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and prominent Multinational Corporations (MNCs), offering a diverse range of services of drone-related services. With an unwavering dedication to positioning India as the Global Drone Hub by 2030, IG Drones has garnered strong backing from the Government of India, the Government of Gujarat, and the Government of Odisha. 

Pertinent to mention here that the drone tech analytics firm has received the UAV Tech Excellence Award at the Elets Digital Natives Summit for its pioneering work in developing India’s first 5G-enabled drone, the Skyhawk. It received the award at the second edition of the Elets Digital Natives Summit held in Delhi last month, embracing the theme “Revolutionizing Business with Digital-First Strategies.” 

 

Marico Expands its Breakfast Portfolio with Saffola Muesli

Saffola launches its new Muesli range, making breakfast exciting through Flavour & Crunch!

 Mumbai, 24th June, 2024: Marico, one of India’s leading FMCG companies has announced the launch of Saffola Muesli with Flavour Pops, aiming to leverage the brand’s equity in the adult breakfast segment.

Over the years, Saffola has emerged as one of the leading players with a wide breakfast range, having become #India’s No. 1 Brand in Oats and launching extension to categories like Peanut Butter, Honey etc. Saffola has continuously innovated to meet the evolving needs of consumers to make convenient nutrition ‘exciting’. Building on its legacy and commitment, the brand peps up the category with crunchy muesli, in three new delicious and flavourful options - Kesar Crunch, Berry Crunch and Choco Crunch.

Saffola launched their range of Muesli, keeping in mind the popular flavours associated with milk, - whether it's the rich and aromatic kesar, the fruity goodness of berries, or the indulgent and dainty chocolate. These variants are crafted to make breakfast an enjoyable and satisfying experience with a burst of flavour and crunch delivered through the inclusion of a unique flavour pops format. Made with a natural mix of multigrain and millet, the flavour pops make Saffola Muesli irresistibly crunchy till the last bite. Moreover, each flavour is designed to satisfy the palate combined with a blend of 15-in-1 fruits, nuts, seeds, millet & more, that make it a powerhouse of nutrition.

Speaking about the launch of the new products, Vaibhav Bhanchawat, Chief Operating Officer - India & Foods Business (Marico Ltd.), says, "Our foray into the Muesli Category marks a significant milestone in line with our brand proposition of offering consumers “better for you” products with a “taste first” approach. While there is a growing need of products that deliver convenient nutrition, we also understand that consumers equally want their breakfast to be exciting and uplifting as it sets the tone for the rest of the day. We identified the opportunity to bring excitement and familiarity to a new age category like Muesli, much like the success we have seen in making oats exciting through Saffola Masala Oats. The idea was to deliver consumer delight through our unique flavour pops format that gives a burst of flavour and an irresistibly crunchy experience. We believe these popular flavours launched under Saffola Muesli with Crunch Flavour Pops will help consumers “brighten up their mornings to take on the day.”

Stree is here to haunt your screens and tickle your funny bones again, Jio Studios & Dinesh Vijan release the teaser of their much-anticipated sequel

Following the phenomenal success of the 2018 film Stree, Jio Studios and Dinesh Vijan have finally unveiled the much-anticipated teaser for their highly awaited sequel, Stree 2.

Directed by Amar Kaushik, the teaser hints at a thrilling narrative that will see the return of the original cast led by Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor. After a sneak peek attached to the theatrical release of ‘Munjya,’ the makers finally dropped it digitally, generating a wave of excitement amongst audiences.

Also starring Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana and Abhishek Banerjee, it promises a return to the spooky yet hilarious world where the legendary Stree continues to terrify men. Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with a double dose of chills and laughter! Stree 2 is set to hit theaters on August 15, 2024.

INDIAN WHISKY BRAND, ICONiQ WHITE ESTABLISHES ITSELF AS THE WORLD’S FASTEST GROWING SPIRIT BRAND: THE MILLIONAIRES CLUB REPORT 2024

Allied Blenders’ Iconiq White, an Indian spirits brand, has emerged as the world's fastest-growing spirits brand, according to The Millionaires Club Report 2024 by Drinks International tracking the performance of spirit brands selling over one million 9-liter cases yearly.

Iconiq White Whisky which is part of “prestige and above segment” was launched in September 2022 grew at 1500% Y-o-Y in 2023, making it the fastest-growing spirit brand globally. This phenomenal rise has surpassed the growth figures of major international and domestic labels.

The Millionaires’ Club Report also highlights many other rapidly growing brands which includes Aznauri, a brandy manufactured by the Global Beverage Trade Company which saw a growth of 83.3%. Courier Napoleon, a brand under Tilaknagar Industries, experienced a notable 60% increase.

Additionally, Magic Moments vodka by Radico Khaitan grew by 29.2%, while Royal Challenge whisky from United Spirits and Olmeca Tequila by Pernod Ricard recorded growth rates of 21.1% and 18.2%, respectively.

The report not only showcases the dynamic and highly competitive nature of the global spirits market, with brands across various categories exhibiting remarkable momentum and impressive growth figures, but it also highlights how spirit companies are strategically responding to increasing consumer demand by introducing innovative products, implementing premiumization strategies, and maintaining a keen focus on evolving consumer preferences adapting to changing trends within the industry.

(Source: Millionaire Club Report 2024 THE MILLIONAIRES CLUB REPORT 2024 BY DRINKS INTERNATIONAL.pdf )

SIMPLY THE BEZ. MARCO BEZZECCHI WITH APRILIA RACING FROM 2025

ITALIAN DUO: BEZZECCHI WILL RIDE THE APRILIA RS-GP UNDER A MULTIPLE-YEAR CONTRACT

 

25th June 2024 - Marco Bezzecchi has signed a multiple-year contract to race with Aprilia Racing beginning from 2025. This is an important step for the manufacturer from Noale, with a full-time Italian rider once again in the top class, after Lorenzo Savadori’s MotoGP début in 2020.

 

The return of an Italian rider is a significant step for the Italian Team Aprilia Racing. The 2025 line-up will have Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martín Almoguera as teammates, a duo ready to establish Aprilia at the top of the MotoGP standings.

 

From his 2022 MotoGP début, Marco has shown great talent and fierce determination, qualities which allowed him to achieve 3 wins, 9 podium finishes, and 4 pole positions, not to mention winning over the hearts of Italian fans.

 

Massimo Rivola, CEO Aprilia Racing -

 

“Welcome aboard to one of the best Italian talents, who has demonstrated his worth from his début in the lower categories and especially last year in MotoGP, with outstanding performances and even breakaway victories. We can’t wait to embrace Bez in Noale; the Italian bike and Italian rider duo are extremely exciting, but even more so is the rider pair which will be formed with Jorge. We are really happy with our line-up for 2025, Martín and Bezzecchi were our first choices for their age, talent, grit, and determination. With them we can write a new and important chapter in the history of Aprilia Racing”.

 

NOTICE TO POLICYHOLDERS OF LIC OF INDIA

This is with reference to recent news articles and other publications relating to product/service offerings by certain entities offering to acquire (by way of sale/transfer, assignment or otherwise) policies held by existing policyholders of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), as an alternative to surrender of policies to the LIC.

In the interest of all our policyholders, we wanted to clarify that:

1. LIC is not associated with any such entity, or the products and/or services being offered by such entities, and any statements made by former employees/personnel of LIC are personal to such individuals. We disclaim any responsibility or liability in connection therewith.
2. Any sale/transfer or assignment of LIC policies need to be undertaken in accordance with Insurance Act, 1938, including Section 38 thereof. Under applicable laws, LIC may decline to act upon any sale/transfer or assignment of policies, where LIC has sufficient reason to believe that such sale/transfer or assignment is not bona fide OR is not in the interest of the policyholder OR in public interest OR is for the purpose of trading of insurance policy.

We urge all policyholders to exercise complete caution before making any decision on their policy which may jeopardise their financial security and the risk cover for their family. Before responding to any offers, kindly consult with any of our LIC officials in our branches.

We, at LIC, are committed to transparency and protecting the best interests of our policyholders.

Navi Mumbai Region Hosts Successful Dak Community Development Programme (DCDP)

Lodhivali Village, Navi Mumbai, 22.06.2024 – Today, the Navi Mumbai Region proudly welcomed all dignitaries who were part of the India-Africa Postal Meet to the Dak Community Development Programme (DCDP) held in Lodhivali Village. This event highlighted the extensive and impactful services of the Department of Posts, underscoring its vital role in fostering socio-economic development across the nation. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Vandita Kaul, Secretary, Department of Posts, as the Guest of Honour.

With over 1.3 lakh rural post offices and around 25,000 urban post offices, India Post boasts the world's most widely distributed postal network, delivering various Government of India schemes directly to citizens' doorsteps to achieve financial inclusion.

Under the Digital India initiative, India Post provides a range of doorstep services, including mechanized parcel delivery, AADHAAR updates, the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System, digital life certificates, and various online services like Click and Book, parcel tracking, and mobile banking. Beyond its social obligations, India Post extends its services to the commercial and e-commerce sectors.

The Dak Community Development Programme (DCDP) is a strategic initiative aimed at uplifting rural communities using India Post's extensive network. DCDP ensures essential services reach remote villages, promoting socio-economic development and financial inclusion through savings schemes, Aadhaar services, insurance, and Common Services Centre schemes.

The event featured guided tours of various stalls, including savings bank, Aadhaar, rural postal insurance, business development, Mahila Samman Savings Certificate, and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana. Delegates also visited a stall featuring Worli paintings, with many purchasing these unique artworks. Branch postmasters demonstrated the wide array of services provided by India Post.

Dignitaries also enjoyed Maharashtra's rich cultural heritage with performances of local folk dances like Lavani and Tarpa.

Delegates from UPU, Africa, and other regions showed great interest in the DARPAN Android device, which is revolutionizing rural economic infrastructure. The interactive sessions and demonstrations provided by the Department of Posts staff showcased India's technological advancements and implementation strategies.

India – Africa Postal Meet - Day 3

The Govt. of India, through the Ministry of Communications, Department of Posts, in collaboration with the Universal Postal Union [UPU] and the United States Postal Service [USPS], commenced the capacity building and study visit program for the CEO’s of DOs from 24 African countries under the South-South Triangular Cooperation [SSTC]. The inaugural ceremony took place on 21st June 2024 at Hotel Taj Land’s End, Bandra, Mumbai. The objective of this study visit is to share and showcase Indian model of delivering various services through Post Offices.

As a part of ongoing study visit on the third day on 23rd June, the delegates visited International Business Centre (IBC) in the Air Mail Sorting Division, Mumbai. 

Shri Amitabh Singh, Postmaster General (Mails Management & Business Development), Maharashtra Circle, received the African delegates at the IBC Mumbai. Commissioner of Customs Shri Harish Dharnia, APMG (BD) Maharashtra Circle Dr. Sudhir Gopal Jakhere, Sr. Supdt. Of Air Mail Sorting Division Shri Pandurang Chormale were also present on the occasion. 

The African Delegates were briefed about the functioning of the International Business Centre (IBC) Mumbai which is generating a revenue of more than 100 crores consistently since last 2 years. It is a one stop solution for international mails where the Posts, Customs and Drug Controller departments are working under one roof. IBC Mumbai caters services to both retail and bulk customers. All international Postal products are booked and processed here after completing the required compliances from Customs and Drug controller Departments. These articles are dispatched to destination countries through respective office of exchanges present in the same premises. The Delegates were also shown the booking and accounting procedure carried out at IBC Mumbai. Further they were explained about the custom clearance and dispatch procedure. 

APMG (BD) Maharashtra Circle Dr. Sudhir Gopal Jakhere welcomed the delegates. Shri Amitabh Singh, Postmaster General (M & BD), Maharashtra Circle expressed his gratitude towards the delegates and also stated that this is a new beginning towards the relation between India Post and Postal Services of African Countries. Commissioner of Customs Shri Harish Dharnia shared his knowledge and experience regarding custom clearance. Sr. Supdt. Of Air Mail Sorting Division Shri Pandurang Chormale concluded the event by vote of thanks.

The delegates were exhilarated after learning the deep insights of the IBC Mumbai and proceeded to Delhi to perpetuate their study visit. 

Export Excellence Awards by Federation of Indian Export Organizations (Western Region) distributed in Mumbai by Governor of Maharashtra

 

Ministry of Commerce & Industry

Maharashtra is one of the largest contributors to India's exports: Shri Ramesh Bais

Posted On: 22 JUN 2024 9:16PM by PIB Mumbai

Federation of Indian Export Organizations (Western Region) organised 8th  & 9th Export Excellence Award Distribution Ceremony in the august presence of Governor of Maharashtra of Ramesh Bais today in Mumbai.

Speaking on this occasion Governor of Maharashtra Shri Ramesh Bais said that  "The state of Maharashtra is one of the largest contributors to India's exports and is continuously increasing its share in world trade through export promotion and trade facilitation initiatives.

President of FIEO Shri Ashwani Kumar said that "FIEO started this financial year on a positive note, the merchandise exports grew by 3% in April and over 9% in May while services exports grew close to 12% in both the months.

Shri Ashwani Kumar further added that “This is a remarkable achievement looking into global headwinds flowing from Ukraine & Russia War, Hamas- Israel conflict, crisis in the Red Sea and related logistics challenges and high interest.”  The FIEO President congratulated and acknowledged the effort of all the Award Winners and the EXIM Fraternity as a whole."

56 Top Performing Exporter were felicitated during this 8th & 9th Set of Export Excellence Awards, across various categories like Highest Foreign Exchange Earner, Women Entrepreneur, Emerging Exporters, Banks & Financial Institutions and Service Providers.

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India-Africa Postal Meet

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Communications, Department of Posts, in collaboration with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and the United States Postal Service (USPS), commenced the capacity building and study visit program for the CEO’s of DOs from 24 African countries under the South-South Triangular Cooperation (SSTC). The inaugural ceremony took place on June 21, 2024, at Hotel Taj Land’s End, Bandra, Mumbai, where 45 African delegates alongside representatives from UPU and USPS were warmly welcomed.The objective of this study visit is to share and showcase Indian model of delivering various services through post offices. 

Ms. Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts), Ministry of Communications, Mr. Thakur Subhash Sinha, Coordinator Asia Pacific and South-South Cooperation at UPU, Mr. Amadou, UPU Africa, Coordinator Postal Services, Ms. Mary Anderson, Executive Director of International Postal Affairs at the USPS, Mr. Sanjay Saran, Member (Technology) Postal Service Board and Mr. Kishan Kumar Sharma, Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle, Mr. Amitabh Singh, Postmaster General (Mails & Business Development), Mr. Ramachandra Jayabhaye, Postmaster General, Pune Region graced the occasion.

Mr. Prannoy Sharma, Deputy Director General of International Relations and Global Business welcomed the Dignitaries and the delegates. He highlighted the importance of SSTC and the role Indiapost is playing in providing citizen centric services in Rural India. 

Ms. Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts), Ministry of Communication, provided a comprehensive overview of India's postal services, highlighting their evolution and current capabilities. Mr. Thakur Subhash Sinha, Coordinator Asia Pacific and South-South Cooperation at UPU, emphasized the significance of SSTC in fostering global collaboration and enhancing postal service infrastructure worldwide.

Mr. Amadou, UPU Africa Coordinator for Postal Services, underscored the pivotal role of postal services in Africa's regional development and connectivity. Ms. Mary Anderson, Executive Director of International Postal Affairs at USPS, discussed the importance of technological advancement, logistics management, and intergovernmental cooperation to strengthen global postal networks.

Mr. Dilip Asbe, Managing Director and CEO of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), shared his insights and innovations in promoting financial inclusion and advancing digital payments infrastructure, highlighting their transformative impact on global financial ecosystems.

As part of the ceremony, a special cover with a unique cancellation mark was released by Ms. Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts) to commemorate the India-Africa Postal Leaders Meet. The delegation from Mauritius Post, led by Mr.Vijaye Anand Ramchurn, presented a joint first-day cover marking the 75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Mauritius and India to Ms. Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts).

The delegates had live experience of service delivery at Mumbai GPO. 

The event signifies India's commitment to enhancing postal cooperation through SSTC, facilitating knowledge exchange, and bolstering global postal infrastructure. It also highlights the collaborative efforts of UPU and USPS in promoting sustainable development goals through enhanced postal connectivity.

Borzo to move its headquarters to Mumbai

 

Mumbai, 22nd June: Borzo (erstwhile WeFast), a global intracity same-day delivery service has announced that the company is moving its headquarters from Amsterdam to Mumbai. The decision to make this strategic move is driven by the increasing significance of the Indian market in Borzo's overall business strategy. As of today, Borzo operates in various countries in Asia and Latin America. 

Borzo’s new CEO, Alina Kisina, announced the shift of headquarters at Borzo Connect, a comprehensive conference organized by the company in Mumbai that focused on addressing the unique challenges faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

With India currently serving as Borzo's largest market, the company recognizes the immense potential for growth and expansion within the country. Currently, Borzo has over 200,000 active delivery partners across 22 cities and they intend to further increase it in 2024.

Keeping India as the axis for all of Borzo’s global operations especially Asia, the shift will help the company expand further and operate efficiently in the emerging economies of the continent. By establishing Mumbai as the central hub, Borzo aims to leverage its capabilities and capitalize on opportunities in India at a larger scale. Currently, Borzo has presence in 22 Indian cities and is focusing on increasing the density of operations in each city.

The company launched in India in 2016 as WeFast and later globally rebranded in 2021 as ‘Borzo’. Since its launch in India, it has served the SMB segment for over 7 years and ventured into the enterprise hyperlocal segment in 2022 to drive growth. Borzo has grown exponentially in India with the country contributing approximately 50% to its global revenue.

Commenting on the headquarters relocation, Ms. Alina Kisina, CEO, Borzo, stated, "The decision to shift the Borzo HQ to India is a reaffirmation of the company's focus on capturing the India opportunity and expanding our client base and business. We aim to scale up our operations and leverage the exceptional talent within Borzo. We will be further expanding Borzo Centres in India, recognizing the value they bring to our global operations. Additionally, we remain committed to investing in high-quality talent and enhancing our infrastructure to continually improve our capabilities. "

“Borzo's headquarters relocation to Mumbai marks a significant milestone in the company's journey, underscoring its commitment to capitalizing on the immense potential of the Indian market and reinforcing its position as a key player in the delivery services industry. Borzo’s India business has grown multifold in the last 7 years, positioning us as one of the strongest players in the SMB segment. Now we expect to penetrate more markets and realize its full potential. We thank all our customers and delivery partners who have trusted us and contributed to our growth as we embark on this new global journey from India” said Eugene Panfilov, Managing Director, Borzo India.

About Borzo

Borzo is a global delivery service that enables intra-city delivery for businesses. Deliveries range from on-demand and hyperlocal and can be performed via any route, any transport, at any weight or size, for a competitive price. Their algorithms optimize numerous parallel deliveries taking into account the geographical routes, packages’ contents, couriers, and many others to ensure the feasibility of the same-day delivery. The services are available in various countries in Asia and Latin America are used by over 250 thousand active couriers and over 1.5 million customers ranging from individuals to enterprises with the main focus on hyperlocal and SMEs.