Indian Street Premier League Season 2 trials will begin from 1st October 2024

Season 2 will be a combination of talent and technology whose trials will be held in 55 cities around the nation

- The integration of cutting-edge technology, including their bar code system and slot selection, had made the trials more seamless than ever before, it allows lakhs of aspirants to participate smoothly

Mumbai, September 30, 2024: The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) Season 2 is set to kick off on January 26th – February 9th, 2025, promising an exhilarating showcase of talent and entertainment across the cricketing landscape. This season with the key focus on precision, fairness, and transparency the trial commences on October 1st and will be held in 55 cities divided in five zones.

Looking forward to the enthusiastic start of season 2, Suraj Samat-League commissioner – ISPL said, “Following the overwhelming success of Season 1, the Indian Sports Premier League (ISPL) is thrilled to kick off the highly anticipated trials for Season 2, starting on October 1st. Building on the strong foundation of Season 1, we remain dedicated to nurturing exceptional talent and fostering healthy competition. We are honoured to have Indian cricket legends Jatin Paranjape and Pravin Amre, who have served on BCCI and IPL selection committees, leading our selection trials, ensuring fairness, precision, and transparency. 

In response to the high demand, we’ve introduced new spot registration options, and for the first time, players can select their trial slot based on real-time availability in their city. To further streamline the process, registered players receive a ‘Golden Ticket’ with a unique QR code via WhatsApp, email, and their ISPL account profile. The integration of cutting-edge technology, including our bar code system and slot selection, has made the trials more seamless than ever before, allowing lakhs of aspirants to participate smoothly as we scout for the champions of tomorrow.”

Jatin Paranjape, Head of Selectors – ISPL said, "To truly elevate the Indian Street Premier League, we must strike a balance between entertainment and talent development. As selectors, it is our responsibility to recognize the holistic potential of every player, especially those with limited resources who demonstrate extraordinary talent. By fostering an inclusive environment that champions grassroots cricket, we can unearth hidden gems and empower the next generation of cricketing stars."

Pravin Amre, Head of Selectors – ISPL, said, "Consistency in trials is paramount for identifying true talent. Through my journey in Indian cricket, both as a player and a coach, with teams like the Delhi Capitals, I've learned that a structured and reliable selection process is crucial. It's not only about evaluating skills on the field; it’s about creating an environment where emerging cricketers can thrive. By maintaining rigorous standards and a fair approach during trials, we can ensure that we are not only recognizing talent but also nurturing it for the future of Indian cricket."

ISPL’s inaugural season in March captivated audiences, drawing over 12,000 fans per match. Over 5 lakh fans attended the tournament, which was filled with entertainment extravaganza. From the star-studded opening ceremony to the nail-biting matches, the league offered a perfect blend of sports and entertainment. Innovative features like the ‘Tip Top’ toss, the 50/50 challenge, ‘Tape Ball Over,’ and ‘9 Street Runs’ added layers of excitement, making every match a thrilling experience for fans.

Season 2 of the ISPL will take place from January 26th to February 9th, 2025, with the player auctions scheduled for December 15th, 2024. The unwavering support of Bharat Ratna Shri. Sachin Tendulkar and BCCI Treasurer Shri. Ashish Shelar has been instrumental in the league’s continued growth and success. Their dedication, along with the blessings of the late Shri. Amol Kale, has been invaluable in upholding the ISPL’s mission of discovering talent from the streets and showcasing them on grand stages, nurturing the heroes of tomorrow.

As the ISPL gears up for Season 2, the league is committed to finding the next generation of cricketing champions. With selectors and officials ready to discover and nurture talent from across 55 cities, ISPL continues its mission to redefine the cricketing landscape in India., divided into five competitive zones, offering amazing opportunities for new talent. 

Link to registration for ISPL season 2:

 

If you scan this code you can go directly to the registration page

Break out the stumps because ISPL Season-2 is hitting in 55 new cities 🏏

Register for ISPL Season 2 Trials

1. MUMBAI 2. AGRA

3. PUNE 4. PALGHAR

5. INDORE 6. DEHRADUN

7. DELHI 8. NASHIK

9. AHMEDABAD 10. VARANASI

11. THANE 12. FARIDABAD

13. BANGALORE 14. SRINAGAR

15. JAIPUR 16. ALLAHABAD

17. BHOPAL 18. RANCHI

19. KOLKATA 20. HOWRAH

21. LUCKNOW 22. COIMBATORE

23. VISAKHAPATNAM 24. JABALPUR

25. CHENNAI 26. MADURAI

27. KANPUR 28. RAIPUR

29. RAIGAD 30. KOTA

31. HYDERABAD 32. GWALIOR

33. NAGPUR 34. SILIGURI

35. PATNA 36. VIJAYAWADA

37. VADODARA 38. GUWAHATI

39. AURANGABAD 40. RATNAGIRI

41. MEERUT 42. JODHPUR

43. GHAZIABAD 44. PANJIM

45. RAJKOT 46. AYODHYA

47. DHANBAD 48. TIRUNELVELI

49. LUDHIANA 50. BAREILLY

51. ALIBAUG 52. MORADABAD

53. AMRITSAR 54. MYSURU

55. TIRUPUR

About the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL):

The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) is India’s pioneering tennis ball T10 cricket tournament played inside a stadium. During this season, Mumbai was the epicentre of new-age cricket entertainment, featuring six competitive teams – Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Srinagar. ISPL ignited fresh anticipation among cricket fans across the nation, coming after a spectacular line-up of celebrity superstars taking up the mantle as team owners – Amitabh Bachchan (Majhi Mumbai), Akshay Kumar (Srinagar Ke Veer), Hrithik Roshan (KVN Bengaluru Strikers), Suriya (Chennai Singams), Ram Charan (Falcon Risers Hyderabad) and Saif & Kareena (Tiigers of Kolkata).The league not only promised thrilling on-field action but also aspired to revolutionize sports entertainment. Attendees could anticipate a vibrant musical festival with live performances, mesmerizing drone shows, breath-taking laser displays, and DJ Chetas spinning the latest beats, creating a seamless blend of cricket prowess and entertainment extravagance. The ISPL aims to redefine the sports entertainment landscape with this unprecedented fusion.

Bombay Sweet Shop Opens in Kala Ghoda

Inaugurated by Shri Saurabh Rao, Commissioner of Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC)

Mumbai, 30 September 2024: Bombay Sweet Shop, by Hunger Inc. Hospitality, celebrated the opening of its third mithai shop cum café in Kala Ghoda on Monday, 30 September 2024, with Shri Saurabh Rao, Commissioner of Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), leading the inauguration ceremony. Following successful openings in Byculla and Bandra, this new store brings Bombay Sweet Shop’s signature combination of traditional Indian sweets and mithai with a modern twist to the vibrant Kala Ghoda district.

Bombay Sweet Shop’s new Kala Ghoda location offers a fresh, modern spin on the traditional mithai shop. Blending the essence of a traditional mithai shop with the vibrant energy of Kala Ghoda, the new location invites guests to discover inventive, 100% vegetarian sweets and savoury treats that reimagine familiar flavours. Bursting with colour and creativity, the shop brings together playful fusion desserts, innovative chaat, specialty coffee and a beautifully curated retail experience. More than just a place for sweets, it’s a lively space designed to capture the neighbourhood’s spirit, making it the go-to destination for indulgent treats and thoughtful gifting, with hampers, reimagined mithai and an eclectic café menu adding a unique touch to every visit.

Open on all days of the week: Monday to Sunday

Timings: 11 am to 12 midnight  

Address: Bombay Sweet Shop, Ground Floor, Seksaria Chambers, 139, Nagindas Master Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai 400001

REC Raises CBDT Notified Zero Coupon Bonds of Rs 5000 crore

Gurgaon, 30 Sep 2024: REC Limited has successfully raised CBDT notified Zero Coupon Bonds (ZCB) of Rs 5,000 crore at the effective yield of 6.25 % p.a.  

REC bonds received tremendous response from the market as the bond was oversubscribed 7 times over the issue size of Rs. 5,000 Crore .

The bond issuance was rated AAA by all the four Credit Rating Agencies (CARE, CRISIL, ICAR, IRRPL).

ZCB are issued at deep discount and are redeemed at face value. Since these ZCBs are CBDT notified, investors are benefitted in the form of lower taxation as redemption of ZCB on maturity is treated as long term capital gain and is accordingly taxed at much lower rate of 12.5% p.a.

Last issuance of CBDT notified ZCB of REC was done in FY 2010-11.

Net Pay-in of Rs. 2,712.50 crore against the bond issuance shall happen on 03rd September 2024.

Bonds will be listed on BSE and NSE.

About REC LIMITED

REC is a 'Maharatna' company under the administrative control of the Ministry of Power, Government of India, and is registered with RBI as Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC), Public Financial Institution (PFI) and Infrastructure Financing Company (IFC). REC is financing the entire Power-Infrastructure sector comprising Generation, Transmission, Distribution, Renewable Energy and new technologies like Electric Vehicles, Battery Storage, Pump Storage projects, Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia projects etc. More recently REC Limited has also diversified into the Non-Power Infrastructure sector comprising Roads & Expressways, Metro Rail, Airports, IT Communication, Social and Commercial Infrastructure (Educational Institution, Hospitals), Ports and Electro-Mechanical (E&M) works in respect of various other sectors like Steel, Refinery, etc.

REC Limited provides loans of various maturities to State, Central and Private Companies for creation of infrastructure assets in the country. REC Limited continues to play a key strategic role in the flagship schemes of the Government for the power sector and has been nodal agency for Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGAYA), Deen Dayal Upadhaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY), National Electricity Fund (NEF) Scheme which resulted in strengthening of last mile distribution system, 100% village electrification and household electrification in the country. REC has also been made the nodal agency for certain States and Union Territories for the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). REC has also been given the responsibility of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna from Central Government. The loan book of REC stands at ₹ 5.30 lakh crore and Net Worth at Rs. ₹ 72,351 crore as on 30th June, 2024.

Amritapuri Celebrates Amma's 71st Birthday

NATIONAL, September 30, 2024: Amma, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi’s 71st birthday was celebrated at Amritapuri Ashram with simple ceremonies, reflecting the solemn backdrop of the recent Wayanad disaster. The festivities began at 5:00 a.m. with a Ganapati Homam, followed by Lalita Sahasranama Archana. A satsang was held at 7:30 a.m. in the ashram's main prayer hall by Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Vice Chairman of the Mata Amritanandamayi Math.

At 9:00 a.m., Amma graced the birthday stage with a warm smile, greeting the thousands of devotees who had gathered in anticipation. Following her arrival, a Guru Paduka Puja was performed under the guidance of Swami Amritaswarupananda. Amma then delivered her birthday message, led everyone in meditation, bhajans and prayers for world peace. During the ceremony, Mata Amritanandamayi Devi awarded the Amritakeerthi Puraskaram to renowned poet Prof. V. Madhusoodanan Nair.

As part of the celebrations, mass marriages were organised, with Amma personally overseeing and leading the ceremonies. Amma’s darshan continued till Saturday morning, as she met individually the  thousands of devotees who had come from around the world to Amritapuri to celebrate their beloved Amma’s birthday. Several prominent figures visited the Ashram to extend their birthday wishes.

Real love is born from fearlessness: 

Amma, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi

““It is from real love is born from fearlessness. It is from this love that new creations, shining with goodness, emerge.” Said Amma, on her 71st Birthday message. Selfishness is fear. It is darkness. It drinks our energy and leaves us drained. It makes us weak and helpless. It drives the individual and society to destruction. Rather than war and endless conflict, may patience, love and compromise guide our attitudes and actions.”

“Instead of the dark climate of religious wars and genocides, let us hear the call for expansiveness and compassion ringing from all quarters. May we all be vigilant in abandoning the desire to exploit nature, as it leads to the tragedies that affect our lives, our loved ones, our wealth and all that we hold dear. May each of us extend our hands to comfort those who are suffering and in pain. And, thus, may everyone find peace and happiness.”

“No one is willing to introspect, honestly evaluate themselves and change their behaviour. As a result, we are unable to look around us with love for others or to protect nature with respect.

Numerous discussions have been held about the dangerous path the world is on, yet we are not showing the required alertness to act with discernment. Our attitude towards the world is like this: “The world’s condition is serious, but there’s nothing to worry about.””

“On one hand, we organise massive symposiums and conferences to discuss solutions for global warming and climate change. On the other, we don’t hesitate to continue destroying forests, mountains and rivers. We hold large discussions about reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, while simultaneously building more factories. The smoke and waste from these factories pollute our air, rivers and oceans. People are very adept at giving impassioned speeches about truth and justice. Yet we often see these same people engaged in hypocritical actions. People loudly warn of the detriments of alcohol and tobacco use, and at the same time they expand their production to increase the GDP. People find new ways to market them and entice people to buy them. While GDP is important, the survival of the world and nature, as well as society’s physical and mental health, is far more vital. Therefore, it is crucial that we bring some balance to this state of affairs.” said Amma.

The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Launches ‘Cruise Bharat Mission,’ to Double Cruise Calls and Passengers within Five years

 

Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways

Mission aims at creation of 4 lakh jobs in the revamped Cruise Sector in India: Shri Sarbananda Sonowal

Cruise circuits to be designed to celebrate and promote globally the cultural, historical and natural heritage of Bharat: Shri Sonowal

Mission to be implemented in Three Phases & cover three key segments - Ocean & Harbour cruise, River & Island cruise, Island cruise

Cruise Bharat Mission will also result in over 1.5 million river cruise passengers over more than 5,000 Kms of Operational Waterways in India

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, launched the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ from the Mumbai port. Aimed at the boosting the tremendous potential of cruise tourism in the country, the programme by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways aims to propel country’s cruise tourism industry by doubling cruise passenger traffic within five years; i.e. by 2029, said Shri Sarbananda Sonowal. The Union Minister of State, MoPSW, Shri Shantanu Thakur also joined Sonowal at this historic occasion.

Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched the mission from onboard cruise ship ‘Empress’ here today. The initiative aims to excel India’s vision to become a global hub for cruise tourism and promote the country as the leading global cruise destination. The Cruise India Mission will be implemented in three phases, beginning from 1 October 2024 up to 31 March 2029. The Phase 1 (01.10.2024 – 30.09.2025) will focus on conducting studies, master planning, and forming cruise alliances with neighbouring countries. It will also modernise existing cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations to enhance the potential of cruise circuits. The Phase 2 (01.10.2025 – 31.03.2027) will concentrate on developing new cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations to activate high-potential cruise locations and circuits. Phase 3 (01.04.2027 – 31.03.2029) will focus on integrating all cruise circuits across the Indian Subcontinent, marking the maturity of the cruise ecosystem while continuing the development of cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations.

Key performance targets across the phases include increasing sea cruise passengers from 0.5 million in Phase 1 to 1 million by Phase 3, with corresponding increases in sea cruise calls from 125 to 500. River cruise passengers will grow from 0.5 million in Phase 1 to 1.5 million by Phase 3. The number of international cruise terminals will expand from 2 in Phase 1 to 10 by Phase 3, while river cruise terminals will increase from 50 to 100. Similarly, marinas will grow from 1 to 5, and employment generated will rise from 0.1 million to 0.4 million by the final phase.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ is a watershed moment in the revamp of the cruise sector of India. Under the visionary leadership of Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the government is committed to harness the tremendous potential of Blue Economy of India. Cruise, with its tremendous potential in our country, has remained unexplored for long. With this visionary mission, it is aimed at transforming our maritime landscape and harness the potential of India’s vast coastline and waterways through cruise tourism. Based on critical pillars of infrastructure development, amp up cruise experience for tourists and sustainability of resources, the three phased mission will develop world class infrastructure and enable growth of cruise tourism and maritime trade.” 

The mission aims to continuously work towards the development of world-class infrastructure and destinations while leveraging technology to provide a seamless experience for embarkation, disembarkation, and destination visits. It will promote the cultural, historical, and natural circuits of the Indian Subcontinent, ensuring inclusive and equitable growth for all stakeholders, including ports, cruise lines, vessel operators, tour operators, service providers, and local communities. Additionally, the mission will enable the responsible involvement of all regulatory agencies such as Customs, Immigration, CISF, State Tourism Departments, State Maritime Agencies, District Administrations, and local police.

“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the government has been taking measures that witnessed a remarkable increase of 400% passenger footfall in cruise since 2014. The ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ will further build on this as it aims to double volume of cruise calls from 254 in 2024 to 500 by 2030 and 1,100 by 2047. We are expecting rise in passengers from 4.6 lakh in 2024 to 5 million by 2047. The mission also aims to create 4 lakhs employment in the cruise sector during this period,” added Sarbananda Sonowal.

The Cruise India Mission targets three key cruise segments. First, the Ocean & Harbour Cruise segment encompasses ocean cruises, including deep-sea and coastal cruises, along with harbour-based yachting and sailing cruises. Second, the River & Inland Cruise segment focuses on river and inland cruises on canals, backwaters, creeks, and lakes. Lastly, the Island Cruise segment highlights inter-island cruises, lighthouse tours, live-aboard experiences, expedition cruises, and boutique cruises to lesser-known destinations.

 

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister of State, MoPSW, Shri Shantanu Thakur said, “Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, this mission reflects the commitment of the Government to transform India into a world class hub for cruise tourism. This mission aims at creating sustainable and vibrant ecosystem which will be beneficial for cruise operators, tourists and communities. This visionary mission will power India’s maritime sector which will open new vistas in tourism and harnessing the Blue Economy.”

 

The mission has identified key initiatives across five strategic pillars. The Sustainable Infrastructure & Capital pillar addresses infrastructure gaps, focusing on developing world-class terminals, marinas, water aerodromes, and heliports, alongside digitalisation (e.g., facial recognition) and decarbonisation (e.g., shore power). It includes creating a National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047, setting up a cruise-focused SPV under Indian Ports Association (IPA), and establishing a cruise development fund. The Operations Including Technology Enabled pillar aims to streamline operations, ensuring smooth embarkation, disembarkation, and destination visits with a focus on digital solutions such as e-clearance systems and e-visa facilities.

The Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration pillar focuses on international marketing and investment promotion, including linking cruise circuits, hosting events like the "Cruise India Summit," and forming alliances with neighbouring countries. The Regulatory, Fiscal & Financial Policy pillar is centred on creating tailored fiscal and financial policies, with a focus on tax scenarios, cruise regulations, and the launch of a National Cruise Tourism Policy. Lastly, the Capacity Building and Economic Research pillar emphasizes skill development, creating a Centre of Excellence for cruise-related economic research, and formulating National Occupational Standards to promote youth employment in the cruise industry.

The Cruise Bharat Mission will not only elevate India’s cruise tourism sector but also create lasting opportunities for generations to come.

The event saw participation from key leaders across the cruise industry namely Rahul Narvekar, Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly; Maharashtra; T.K. Ramchandran, Secretary of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India; and Jurgen Bailom, CEO of Cordelia Cruises, including other dignitaries, government officials and stakeholders.

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Parksons Cartamundi Partners With The Bengaluru All Stars Poker Team For Poker Sports League

27 September 2024, Mumbai: Parksons Cartamundi a leading global manufacturer and distributor of playing cards, is excited to announce its strategic partnership with the Bengaluru All Stars Poker Team as the associate partner for Poker Sports League (PSL). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in elevating the poker experience in India, bringing together the world-class quality of Copag cards, with the passion and skill of the Bengaluru All Stars. 

As a leading provider of playing cards, Copag – marketed by Parksons Cartamundi, has long been admired for its commitment to innovation and excellence. Copag has been Brazil’s no. 1 brand & official sponsor for the World series of Poker for many years & will continue to be the top / preferred choice for Poker players worldwide. Made from 100% PVC plastic, Copag cards offer unparalleled durability, shuffle ability, and card control, making them the preferred choice for professional players and enthusiasts alike. This collaboration will showcase Copag's high-quality design and emphasize Parksons Cartamundi's commitment to elevating the competitive spirit of poker. Known globally for their sleekness, ease of handling, and durability, Copag cards are the perfect choice for poker enthusiasts and professionals alike. Their smooth texture ensures easy shuffling and superb dexterity, making them ideal for long sessions of poker or any card-based activity. Copag- ‘Never Not Playing’.

In the world of poker, Poker Sports League stands out as the pinnacle of competition where the world’s best players come together to showcase their skills and strategic thinking. Their partnership with Copag aligns perfectly with their pursuit of excellence and commitment to providing players and fans a top-tier poker experience. The league’s rigorous format and intense competition make it the ultimate test for any poker player. The virtual matches of PSL kicked off on August 26th and are being live-streamed on Jio Cinema, providing fans with real-time access to the action. The offline matches will take place from September 13th to 15th at Novotel Hotel Goa, where players will compete using the Copag Playing Cards decks, further enhancing the quality of gameplay.

Speaking about the partnership, Mr. Kapil Kejriwal, CEO & MD, Parksons Cartamundi Private, Limited, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with the Bengaluru All Stars Poker Team. This partnership is a natural fit for both of us, as we share a common goal of elevating the poker experience and creating a thriving community. Copag Playing Cards, known for their exceptional quality and durability, will be the star of the show, ensuring a premium playing experience for all participants and viewers. We’re excited to contribute to the growth of poker as a legitimate sport and provide players and fans with unforgettable moments. “

The Bengaluru All Stars Poker Team, a new and dynamic addition to PSL Season 6, is composed of a talented roster of poker enthusiasts. Their team bio proudly declares, "We play this card game with #BrainsOverBluff 🃏. We are Bengaluru AllStars, we are all in for Poker 🪙. #NammaBengaluru."

The Bengaluru All Stars Poker Team lineup includes:

• Captain: Zarvan Tumboli

• Wild Card: Abhishek Goindi

• Pros: Jasven Saigal, Nishant Sharma, Avneesh Munjal

• Qualifiers: Uttam Kumar, Animesh Banerjee, Ritesh Khatwani, Nandan Pugalia, Sunny Prajapati, Rupesh Kumar Sinha

The offline matches will be held at Novotel Goa from September 13th to 15th, promising an exciting showcase of poker skills and strategy.

Poker in India is rapidly gaining popularity due to its convenience and accessibility, as well as the opportunity to compete in global tournaments. According to a study by Custom Marketing Insights, the Indian online poker market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 16.9% from 2023 to 2030, with its valuation expected to reach USD 346 billion by 2030. In response to the rising demand for playing cards in India, Parksons Cartamundi is expanding its Poker portfolio with two new SKUs, Black Box Pro and Black Box Luxury, featuring intricate designs and high-quality materials that offer a premium and luxurious feel. These new additions Black Box Pro cards are crafted from 100% plastic, designed with a jumbo index and poker size for optimal usability, and the Black Box Luxury is available in six premium colors, and comes in unique swivel box. These cards are tailored to meet the discerning needs of modern poker enthusiasts.

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Appoints Mr. Pramod Kumar Dubey as Whole-Time Director on the Board and designated as an Executive Director

Highlights:

Appointment of Mr. Pramod Kumar Dubey as Whole-Time Director, and designated as   Executive Director of the Bank, effective immediately.

Over 25 years of extensive experience in branch banking, sales management, product management, operations, and compliance.

He will drive the Bank’s strategic growth and enhance operational excellence.

Mumbai, Utkarsh Small Finance Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Pramod Kumar Dubey as Whole-time Director of the Bank, effective immediately.

With over 25 years of extensive experience in branch banking, sales management, product management, operations, and compliance. Mr. Dubey is well-positioned to steer the Bank’s strategic growth and operational performance. He is also designated as an Executive Director on the Bank’s Board.

In his new role, Mr. Dubey will oversee the Bank’s core business operations, with a strong emphasis on enhancing customer experiences and broadening product offerings to cater to the diverse needs of clients. His extensive background in the financial services industry equips him with the leadership skills necessary to drive the Bank toward new milestones. Mr. Dubey has held key leadership positions at ICICI Bank Ltd. for 24 years, where he implemented innovative strategies that delivered substantial growth and profitability.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Parveen Kumar Gupta, Chairman, Utkarsh Small Finance Bank, said, "We are pleased to welcome Mr. Pramod Kumar Dubey as Whole-time Director at Utkarsh Small Finance Bank. His extensive experience and expertise will significantly strengthen our top management team. I am confident that Mr. Dubey's strategic vision and risk mitigation approach will drive us towards our next level of growth." 

 

Speaking on the appointment, Mr. Govind Singh, MD & CEO, Utkarsh Small Finance Bank, said, “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Pramod Kumar Dubey to our leadership team. His deep understanding of the banking sector and his proven track record of driving business growth will be instrumental as we continue to expand and innovate. We believe his leadership will be key to furthering our mission of empowering underserved communities with accessible financial solutions.”

 

Mr. Pramod Kumar Dubey added, “I am happy to join Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Limited and I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to build on the Bank’s strong foundation, explore new growth opportunities, and continue delivering exceptional service to our customers.”

REDEFINING MEN’S JEWELLERY: MEN OF PLATINUM INTRODUCES THE MS DHONI SIGNATURE COLLECTION

~A first in the category MS Dhoni’s signature is immortalized in rare platinum! ~

Mumbai, 27th September 2024: Platinum Guild International (PGI) India’s Men of Platinum has launched the MS Dhoni Signature Collection, immortalising the inspiring values of cricketing legend MS Dhoni. This exclusive collection boasts of designs that reflect not only Dhoni’s immaculate style and brilliant journey but also his unmatched character and greatness. Cast in rare platinum and infused with his indomitable spirit, every piece in this collection serves as a tribute to MS Dhoni’s enduring legacy. Determination, self-belief, courage, humility, composure are all qualities that Dhoni stands for and each piece tells the story of these qualities that he holds close. A true ‘man of platinum’, and a fitting inspiration for a one-of-a-kind limited platinum jewellery collection that aspires to stir that same greatness in those who don the collection.

 

Born of the stars, platinum is found only in select locations across the globe and is a symbol of what is truly rare and precious. Each piece of jewellery in this newly launched collection, bears the legend MS Dhoni’s signature – a precious piece of India’s sporting legacy, etched in platinum. Crafted in 95% platinum this collection from Men of Platinum is cast with clean, bold lines with minimalism at its core.

 

Talking about the association MS Dhoni shared, “It’s been an honour to collaborate with Men of Platinum on this special collection. Platinum, with its strength, rarity, and enduring qualities, has always stood out for me. This collection, marked with my signature, carries personal significance. It reflects the values that have shaped who I am—grit, composure, and self-belief. For me, these pieces are more than just jewellery; they are a tribute to the lessons I’ve learned and the path I’ve walked.”

 

Vaishali Banerjee, Managing Director of Platinum Guild International, India, said, “It is a privilege and an honour to collaborate with MS Dhoni on this unique collection. Each piece in the collection carries his signature, making it truly special. It is a partnership that goes beyond creating beautiful jewellery—it’s about aligning our brand with qualities that truly resonate with our consumers, such as grit, resilience, and leadership. Through this association with MS Dhoni, we are confident that we will reinforce the values that platinum represents and further elevate its stature as a symbol of enduring success.”

ELEVATE YOUR STYLE GAME, WITH THESE TOP 5 PIECES FROM THE MS DHONI SIGNATURE EDITION:

THE PLATINUM GRID BRACELET

Elegance meets strength in this dual tone kada, featuring a sophisticated grid pattern with rose gold accents on the side. This kada is crafted from 95% pure platinum, a metal whose strength remains unwavering through years of wear, making it rare! Bearing the legend MS Dhoni’s signature, this piece is perfect for those who exude quiet determination and strong character.

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 THE PLATINUM MOMENTUM BRACELET

The alternating bevelled triangles on the front of this bracelet, with a striking blend of gloss and matte finishes, symbolise the strength to navigate life’s ups and downs with unwavering values. The back features MS Dhoni's iconic signature on a sleek black centrepiece. Cast in platinum -an enduring metal as resolute as the legend who inspired it -this bracelet is crafted for those who face life's challenges with relentless drive, proving that true greatness comes from within.

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THE PLATINUM CUBE FUSION BRACELET

The alternating brushed matte platinum and glossy rose gold cube links achieve the perfect balance of versatility and durability. Crafted in platinum -a metal that endures through years of wear, making it truly rare –this bracelet, featuring MS Dhoni’s iconic signature on black, is designed for those who strike a balance between staying adaptable and yet true to their values no matter what.

 

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 THE PLATINUM BOLD LINKS BRACELET

Bold, interlocking platinum links form a robust bracelet that reflects the power of unyielding resilience. Crafted from 95% pure platinum, it’s a metal that remains unfading over time, making it incredibly rare. The bracelet features a solid clasp that carries MS Dhoni's signature, embodying his indomitable strength and unwavering resolve. Designed for men who cherish these values, this piece inspires them to always find strength within.

 

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THE PLATINUM HARMONY CHAIN

Intricate platinum links intertwine to form a seamless, fluid chain, mirroring the harmonious blend of inner strength and outward composure. Crafted from platinum, a metal maintains its natural pristine white over time, never fading or tarnishing. A metal that’s simply rare. With a solid clasp, featuring the legend MS Dhoni's signature, it is made for those who weave together their resilience and calm in the face of life's odds.

 

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This collection hits stores beginning October just in time for Diwali and will be available with key retailers across India.

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Rays Power Infra Secures India’s Largest Vanadium Redox Flow Battery Tender from NTPC Ltd

 New Delhi, India, September 26, 2024 Rays Power Infra has been awarded India’s largest vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) tender by NTPC for its R&D division NTPC Energy Technology Research Alliance (NETRA), securing a 600KW / 3000KWh project. This landmark win marks Rays’ pivotal advancement in India’s renewable energy storage landscape, setting new standards for long-duration, cost-effective energy storage solutions.

Rays Power’s success in this tender underscore its commitment to driving the energy transition. VRFB technology offers long-duration energy storage, crucial for grid stability and the large-scale integration of renewable energy.

Ketan Mehta, MD & CEO of Rays Power Infra, “This achievement reinforces our technical prowess and vision for a sustainable energy future. As we expand our portfolio with cutting-edge energy storage projects, we are thrilled to contribute meaningfully to India’s ambitious renewable energy goals.”

Vaibhav Roongta, CBO of Rays Power Infra, “We are humbled to have won this vanadium-based flow battery project from NTPC, a critical step for Rays towards bolstering its position as a leading sustainability service provider in the country. This is the first project in India with VRFB technology for providing 5 hours of power storage system. We are committed to providing innovative and efficient solutions that support the energy transition, ensuring reliability and sustainability.”

This project strengthens Rays Power Infra’s leadership in the energy sector. By integrating VRFB technology, the company is set to enhance India’s grid reliability, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and advance the nation’s climate objectives.

About Rays Power Infra:

Rays Power Infra Ltd is a leading renewable energy solutions provider having commissioned over 1.6GWp of renewable energy assets across India and Southeast Asia. Rays Power is currently executing another 1GWp of projects in India and developing over 2.5GW of renewable energy parks. Specializing in large-scale solar and energy storage solutions, the company remains dedicated to supporting India’s green energy ambitions through innovation and sustainable technologies.

About NTPC Limited:

NTPC Ltd is India’s largest power utility with over 76 GW installed capacity, including coal, gas, hydro, wind, and solar project. Established in 1975, NTPC is steering ahead to be India’s largest integrated power company and targets to become a 130 GW firm by 2032. NTPC NETRA works on innovative eco-friendly technologies to decarbonize the energy sector and integration of renewables and different storage technologies to optimize the use of multiple energy sources.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Email: info@raysventures.com

Allied Blenders and Distillers Grabs Multiple Golds at Global Awards ZOYA Gin, ICONiQ, Srishti and X&O Whiskies win major awards at ISC, IWC, ISWA, and Monde Selection

Mumbai, 24th September 2024: Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABDL) continues to shine on the global stage, earning international recognition for its exceptional portfolio of spirits. The company is proud to announce a series of prestigious wins at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) 2024, International Whisky Competition (IWC) 2024 as well as India Wine & Spirits Awards (IWSA) 2024.

At the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) 2024, secured 3 coveted Gold Medals further establishing its reputation as a leader in the spirits industry.

1. Gold | World Whisky: ICONiQ White Whisky
2. Gold | World Whisky: Srishti Whisky
3. Gold | World Whisky: X&O Barrel Whisky

 

In addition to its success at ISC, ABDL triumphed at the International Whisky Competition (IWC) 2024, one of the world’s most influential whisky competitions. The company dominated the Best Blended Indian Whisky category, sweeping the top honour in a field of intense global competition with Gold for X&O Barrel Whisky.

 

The company again toasted and cheered at the prestigious India Wine & Spirits Awards (IWSA)—India’s largest and most credible blind-tasting competition for both domestic and international wines and spirits.

• ZOYA Gin was awarded the Best in Show trophy for Best Indian Contemporary Gin.
• ICONiQ White Whisky won Gold for Best Indian Blended Whisky

Consolidating its reputation, ABDL received the Gold Quality Award for ICONiQ White Whisky at the Monde Selection World Quality Awards 2024, a distinguished honour for quality and world-class production standards.

"These prestigious wins at the ISC, IWC, IWSA, Monde Selection are a testament to ABDL’s commitment to quality and innovation. Being recognized on global platforms reflects the dedication of our team and reaffirms our vision of crafting world-class spirits for global consumers. We take pride in these wins and will strive to improve on these further." said Alok Gupta, Managing Director, Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited.

 

Arun Barik, Executive Director, Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited, added: “Our success at various industry platforms underscores the excellence of our products and the commitment of our team. These awards highlight our ongoing pursuit of excellence and our position as a leading spirits producer on the global stage.”

With these significant wins, ABDL continues to set the benchmark for Quality and Innovation in the spirits industry, reaffirming its status as a trailblazer in both the Indian and global markets.

                                                                                                                                                   

About Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (www.abdindia.com)

Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABDL) is the third largest Spirits company in India, in terms of annual sales volumes between FY14 and FY24. ABDL has a presence in five main flavors, i.e., whisky, brandy, rum, vodka, and gin, with ‘millionaire’ brands like Officer’s Choice Whisky, Officer’s Choice Blue Whisky, Sterling Reserve Premium Whiskies and ICONiQ White Whisky. Currently, its manufacturing network comprises 33 units, of which 9 are owned bottling units, 1 owned distillery, and 23 non-owned manufacturing units.

 

Social

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Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/abdl_india/

LEANDER PAES, MAHESH BHUPATHI & SANIA MIRZA REUNITE AT TENNIS PREMIER LEAGUE SEASON 6 AUCTIONS

Mumbai, 25th September 2024: Ahead of the highly-anticipated sixth season of the Tennis Premier League (TPL) powered by Clear Premium Water, the eight franchises came out all guns blazing at the auctions at Sahara Star, Mumbai on Wednesday. The star-studded evening saw the presence of the tennis icons Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi and Sania Mirza, who gathered together after many years to promote the sport, along with Bollywood celebs Rakul Preet Singh and Sonali Bendre.

 

After an intense four rounds of bidding that saw plentiful twists and turns, all the teams assembled highly competitive rosters, featuring a mix of fascinating talent from across the globe.

 

The 22-year-old Armenian rising star Elina Avanesyan, who will be competing in the tournament for the first time, earned the highest bid of INR 42.20 Lakh from Priyesh Jain-owned and Taapsee Pannu-backed Punjab Patriots. Despite facing a stiff competition from other teams, Patriots fought tooth and nail to rope in the World No. 47 player in their squad from the Diamond category, showcasing their intent for the title. Punjab managed to lock in Arjun Kadhe from the Men's Platinum Category at the base price of Rs 5 Lakh, and played strategically in the final round of auctions, waiting late till the end to buy Mukund Sasikumar for Rs 6.80 Lakh.

 

The defending Champions Bengaluru SG Pipers bought the second-most expensive player of the evening, roping in two-time Grand Slam mixed doubles title winning Australian Max Purcell for Rs 42 Lakh. The Rohan Gupta-owned franchise, who has Indian Tennis icon Mahesh Bhupathi's as the CEO for SG Sports, entered late into the bid for Purcell, but outbid their oppositions to reserve his services. Bengaluru bought Olympian Ankita Raina for Rs 5 Lakh to further bolster their squad and doubled down on their intent to buy doubles specialists by roping in Anirudh Chandrasekar for Rs 4 Lakh.

 

The last year's finalists Bengal Wizards owned by Mr. Yatin Gupte and backed by Indian tennis legend Sania Mirza, formed a solid squad once again by buying Croatian tennis star Petra Matric, who has won two singles tour on the WTA tour in her career, at her base price of Rs 35 Lakh. Saving money in the kitty, the Wizards performed magic in the second category of players, by playing their Right to Match card for veteran star Sriram Balaji and earned his services for Rs 6.20 Lakh, earning much applause from the crowd for the brilliant strategic play. Bengal bought Niki Poonacha for Rs 3.80 Lakh to close out their squad on a high, winning yet another close battle in the final round of the evening.

 

Gujarat Panthers, owned by Ramku Patgir, showcased they have closely studied the previous years' auctions and tournaments, and made tremendous moves at the auctions. The franchise made the blockbuster move to buy star player Sumit Nagal at his base price of Rs 35 Lakh, and then fought hard to buy AITA ranked No. 1 female player Sahaja Yamalapalli. Regaining her services for Rs 7.80 Lakh, Gujarat further bought in doubles specialist Vijay Sundar with a high bid of Rs 11.5 Lakh to fizzle out the competition.

 

Dr. Veekkas Mahamuni-owned Yash Mumbai Eagles spent heavy on bringing in experienced Romanian tennis star Jaqueline Cristian, who made her mark at the Paris Olympics this year. The franchise showcased their intent to fight for the title as they roped in Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan who recently claimed the doubles title at the Hangzhou Open 2024 tennis, earning his first ATP title. Mumbai once again had to wage a long battle in the last round to secure services of Karan Singh, but fought till the end to ensure they are able to secure the talented star in their roster.

 

Shrachi Delhi Rarh Tigers owned by Rahul Todi and backed by Leander Paes went big for Indian veteran star Rohan Bopanna, despite tough fight from other franchises. Bopanna, who became the oldest player in history to earn World No. 1 ranking after the Men's doubles title win at the 2024 Australian Open, was a huge win for Delhi, setting them up for the auctions for success. Belarus' Iryna Shymanovich was next on Delhi's radar, but once again the franchise faced intense competitions from other franchise for the Belarus star. The long-drawn out bidding for Iryna further cemented Delhi's relentless pursuit of excellence ahead of the season, and the franchise closed the proceedings with a quick buy of 27-year-old Tunisian player Aziz Dougaz.

 

The new franchise on the block Chennai Smashers, owned by Vipul Bansal of Hi-Tech Pipes and Dharmender Goel of Ganga International School, backed by Bollywood superstar Sonali Bendre, did not show any ounce of inexperience at the auctions, and made a smart buy for French youngster Hugo Gaston, who has garnered much attention over the years for his unorthodox style of play. Chennai went for Swiss veteran Conny Perrin in the next round to balance the youth with experience and then roped in Rithvik Choudary Bollipalli, who has 2 challenger titles, 8 ITF titles to his name.

 

Tennis Premier League Co-founder Kunal Thakkur expressed his happiness over the successful auctions for Season 6 and said, "We are overwhelmed with the response received for the auction and sincerely thank all the team owners, ambassadors and mentors for coming together to make this event such an emphatic success. It was fantastic to see the tennis legends Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi and Sania Mirza gather together after so many years to promote tennis in India and support the league.”

 

Mrunal Jain, co-founder of TPL, echoed the sentiments and said, "The exciting bidding wars is what makes the auctions. Today, all the teams executed their plans to perfection and did not settle for anything below excellence. The fact that the top icons of Indian tennis fraternity – Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, and Sania Mirza – gathered for the auctions has already given the upcoming edition a memorable start and promises an exciting season ahead.”

 

The TPL tees off at the iconic Cricket Club of India in Mumbai in association with the All-India Tennis Association (AITA) and Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA). The Innovative Tennis League will run from 3rd December 2024 till the 8th of December 2024.

 

 

 

WOMEN
	Country	Player name	Age	Team
1	Croatia	Petra Maric	33	Bengal Wizards
2	India	Ankita Raina	31	Bengaluru SG Pipers
3	Belarus	Elina Avanesyan	27	Punjab Patriots
4	Great Britain	Harriet Dart	28	Hyderabad Strikers
5	India	Sahaja Yamalapalli	23	Gujarat Panthers
6	Romania	Jaqueline Christian	26	Yash Mumbai Eagles
7	Switzerland	Conny Perrin	33	Chennai Smashers
8	Belarus	Iryna Shymanovich	27	Shrachi Delhi Rarh Tigers
MEN
1	India	Sriram Balaji	34	Bengal Wizards
2	India	Niki Poonacha	29	Bengal Wizards
3	Australia	Max Purcell	26	Bengaluru SG Pipers
4	India	Anirudh Chandrasekar	26	Bengaluru SG Pipers
5	India	Arjun Kadhe	30	Punjab Patriots
6	India	Mukund Sasikumar	27	Punjab Patriots
7	Zimbabwe	Benjamin Lock	31	Hyderabad Strikers
8	India	Vishnu Vardhan	37	Hyderabad Strikers
9	India	Sumit Nagal	26	Gujarat Panthers
10	India	Vijay Sundar	37	Gujarat Panthers
11	India	Karan Singh	21	Yash Mumbai Eagles
12	India	Jeevan N	28	Yash Mumbai Eagles
13	France	Hugo Gaston	23	Chennai Smashers
14	India	Rithvik Bollipalli	23	Chennai Smashers
15	India	Rohan Bopanna	44	Shrachi Delhi Rarh Tigers
16	India	Aziz Dougaz	27	Shrachi Delhi Rarh Tigers