Afcons hosts Maldivian Ministerial Delegation to India

 Delegation visits High Speed Rail C-2 PKG, involving India’s first undersea tunnel, in Mumbai

 

Mumbai: A Maldivian senior ministerial delegation led by Dr Abdulla Muththalib, Honourable Minister of Construction and Infrastructure of the Republic of Maldives, visited the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Project in Mumbai. The delegation, which is holding discussions with Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, toured the High-Speed Rail’s C-2 package, which is being constructed by Afcons Infrastructure Ltd for National High Speed Rail Corporation Ltd. The package includes 21km tunnel, including India’s first undersea high speed rail tunnel (7km).

 

From L-R: Mr Aravindan Ananda, Mr Sunil Tyagi, Mr Munu Mahawar, India’s High Commissioner to Maldives, Dr Abdulla Muththalib, Minister of Construction and Infrastructure, Mr Ibrahim Thoaam Mohamed, Minister of State for Construction and Infrastructure, Mr Uday Prakash Singh, and Mr SS Tomar.

 

The delegation comprised Mr Ibrahim Thoaam Mohamed, Minister of State for Construction and Infrastructure, Mr Ismail Hameed, Minister of State for Construction and Infrastructure, Mr Abdullah Miuvan Shareef, Strategic Communications Director and Mr Mohamed Jinan Saeed from Maldives. Mr Munu Mahawar, India’s High Commissioner to Maldives, accompanied the delegation along with Mr Uday Prakash Singh, Chief Project Manager, National High Speed Rail Corporation, and the Afcons team led by Mr Sunil Tyagi, Project Director who explained the nuances of the construction.

 

The delegation discussed prospective technologies that can be utilised in Maldives' infrastructure development and took insights from the India’s first undersea high speed rail tunnel. According to Ministry officials, the visit underscored exchanging knowledge and exploring possible translatable novel methodologies that could be imported to refine and streamline infrastructure projects within the Maldives.

 

About Afcons Infrastructure Ltd

Afcons Infrastructure Ltd is flagship infrastructure engineering and construction company of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group (i.e., the group’s leading engineering and construction company), a diversified Indian conglomerate. It has a legacy of over six decades, with strong track record of executing numerous technologically complex EPC projects both within India and internationally. As per the 2023 ENR survey, Afcons is one of the India’s largest international infrastructure companies, and ranked 10th in Marine & Ports and 12th in Bridges.

 

Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal chairs the 3rd Board of Trade Meeting

 

Ministry of Commerce & Indust

Shri Goyal reaffirms government’s commitment to drive economic growth through partnerships with states

Shri Goyal launches the Department of Commerce’s Jan Sunwai Portal and ECGC’s new online service portal

Posted On: 13 SEP 2024 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, chaired the third meeting of the reconstituted Board of Trade at Mumbai, today. Shri Piyush Goyal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to drive economic growth through robust partnerships with state governments.

The Minister emphasized that initiatives of the government are instrumental in guiding India towards a more transparent, efficient, and sustainable trade environment, benefiting the country’s broader economic landscape.

Shri Goyal launched the Department of Commerce’s Jan Sunwai Portal, designed to streamline communication between stakeholders and authorities, providing a direct and transparent channel for addressing trade and industry-related issues. This portal offers on-demand video conferencing services, in addition to fixed video conference links for regular, scheduled interactions. The portal’s accessibility extends across various offices and autonomous bodies under the Department of Commerce, such as the DGFT, Coffee Board, Tea Board, Spices Board, Rubber Board, APEDA, MPEDA, ITPO, and EIC.

Shri Piyush Goyal also inaugurated ECGC’s new online service portal, alongside a revamped in-house SMILE-ERP system. These innovations mark a significant leap towards paperless processing and faceless service delivery, benefiting both exporters and banks. This transformation will not only streamline customer services but also enhance ECGC's core operational efficiency. Key outcomes include full automation of processes, business process integration, quicker claim disposals, enhanced operational control, and a meaningful reduction in the carbon footprint to support sustainability goals. ECGC’s embrace of digital solutions underscores its unwavering commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction, ensuring world-class services for Indian exporters.

Discussions in the meeting centred around critical initiatives aimed at fostering employment across states and enhancing the role of the Department of Commerce in promoting state-level economic growth.

The session also featured interactive presentations from the State Governments of Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Madhya Pradesh, showcasing their achievements in export promotion and ease of doing business (EODB), interventions, and ongoing state-level initiatives. Best practices for export promotion were shared across the board, providing valuable insights for peer states. The participation and suggestions from the states of Assam, Tripura, and Sikkim are expected to lead to higher export potential from the North East region.

In the realm of E-Commerce exports, the Board of Trade was informed by officials from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) that effective immediately, RoDTEP, RoSCTL, and Drawback benefits will be extended to all exports made via Courier. Plans to extend these benefits to postal route exports are also in the pipeline, creating a more equitable environment for E-Commerce exporters utilizing the courier  and postal mode.

The Board of Trade functions as a key platform for collaboration, discussion, and policy recommendations to bolster the growth of India's international trade. Bringing together representatives from the Industry Ministry, State Governments, industry stakeholders, and trade organizations, this advisory body seeks to shape a thriving trade ecosystem.

Notably, Ministers from 10 State Governments were in attendance for this important session. Minister for Industries, Goa, Shri Mauvin Godinho; Minister of MSME, Madhya Pradesh, Shri Chetanya Kasyap; Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Rajasthan, Shri Krishna Kumar Vishnoi; Minister for Finance, Tamil Nadu,  Shri Thangam Thennarasu; Commerce & Industry Minister, Tripura, Smt. Santana Chakma; Minister for Export Promotion, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Nand Gopal Gupta; Minister Industries and Commerce, Assam, Shri Bimal Borah; Minister of Finance, Gujarat, Shri Kanubhai Desai; Minister of Commerce & Industry, Sikkim, Shri Tshering Thendup Bhutia; and Minister of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Industry & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Telangana, Shri Duddilla Sridhar Babu attended the meeting.

Secretary, Department of Commerce, Shri Sunil Barthwal, Additional Secretary and Director General, DGFT, Shri Santosh Sarangi and other senior officials of Government of India and State/UT Governments also attended the meeting.

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Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Secures Patent for Room Temperature Stable Oral Suspension of Hydroxyurea recommended for Sickle Cell Disease

 

13th September 2024 – Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, largest India Focused Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO), has been awarded a patent for its Room Temperature Stable Oral Suspension of Hydroxyurea, a breakthrough formulation aimed at managing Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). This development reinforces Akums' role as an innovator in pharmaceutical solutions, offering a significant advance in addressing the storage and accessibility challenges associated with Hydroxyurea solution.

Sickle Cell Disease, a genetic blood disorder, leads to severe health complications such as anemia, frequent pain episodes and other debilitating symptoms, affecting millions worldwide especially in India and Africa. According to the 2011 Census, 8.6% of India's population is from tribal communities, many of whom are disproportionately affected by SCD. Addressing this pressing public health issue, Akums' new formulation offers a key advantage over traditional Hydroxyurea solution that require refrigeration between 2–8°C. The new oral suspension remains stable at room temperature, providing a practical solution for widespread distribution, particularly in the tribal areas with limited access to cold storage facilities.

Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Sanjeev Jain, Managing Director of Akums, said, "We are proud to have secured this patent for a formulation that has the potential to improve the lives of countless SCD patients both in India and Africa. At Akums, we are committed to delivering innovative healthcare solutions that address real-world challenges and positively impact patient outcomes. Our constant endeavor is to work on affordable medicines for Orphan Drugs and reduce dependency on imported medicines ensuring patient safety from rare diseases with timely and necessary treatment.”

Mr. Sandeep Jain, Managing Director of Akums, added, "This patent reflects our dedication to the 'Make in India' initiative and our commitment to offering affordable, high-quality pharmaceutical solutions as envisioned by Government of India. We continue to prioritize innovation to make essential treatments accessible and cost-effective for all. Tribal communities make up 67.8 million people across various states in India. Many within these communities are disproportionately affected by Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). We are happy that our R&D scientists have provided a much required formulation that is suitable for all age group especially pediatric and adolescent patients suffering from SCD. Our innovative oral suspension remains stable at room temperature, ensuring greater accessibility and providing an efficient solution for widespread distribution, particularly in tribal areas where cold storage facilities are scarce.".

Akums' breakthrough aligns with India's National Sickle Cell Anemia Mission, spearheaded by Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, which aims to enhance the quality of life for SCD patients by improving treatment options. In comparison to Hydroxy Urea Capsule (500mg), Akums Hydroxy Urea suspension offers dose flexibility based on body weight of the SCD Patients, thus offer significqant advantage for pediatric and adolescent patients. 

 The patented formulation will now come at fraction of the cost of imported Hydroxyurea solution, this is in line with our commitment to provide affordable quality medicines in India. With this new patent, Akums continues to advance healthcare through innovation, ensuring life-saving treatments reach those who need them the most.

DriveX targets ₹100 crore in revenue for FY25, expanding its retail presence from 57 to 130 by May 2025, with plans to reach 500 by 2027

India, 13th September: DriveX, India's first and largest digital-first auto-tech platform for two-wheelers as good as new, recently launched their 8th company-owned and operated store in Chennai, which raises the total number of retail stores to 57. They also announced a sharp rise in revenue for FY24. With an aggressive plan for network expansion, DriveX has set the revenue target for FY25, expanding its retail touchpoints from 57 to 130 by May 2025 and 500 by 2027. 

“We plan to double our retail touch points from 57 to 130 by May 2025," said Narain Karthikeyan, Founder and Managing Director, DriveX Mobility. “Presently we are retailing about 2,500 used vehicles a month, a huge jump from 25-30 vehicles, which were sold just a couple of years ago. We have identified twice as much demand and are taking the necessary measurements to meet the growing demand.," he added. 

TVS Motor Company owns 48% of DriveX, which has emerged as a major player in the pre-owned two-wheeler market. This year, the company inaugurated its 57th retail touch point in Chennai, marking the latest in a series of aggressive growth stories showcased by the company. "The Chennai store is an important hub for our South India operations, and we are using the rich automotive heritage of the city to enhance our service and scale up further," he added. 

DriveX plans to scale its presence in key northern markets as part of its expansion drive. "Though we have a tiny footprint in the NCR region, we have in our pipeline to establish our refurbishment center in Ghaziabad, which will enable us to get better traction and improve service quality in this market," said Karthikeyan. 

In addition to expanding the retail with a product portfolio of top-quality refurbished two-wheelers, DriveX also offers a specially formulated oil for pre-owned engines. "This is getting good reception and is driving extra market traction," says Karthikeyan. Biking accessories have also emerged, adding another dimension to the company's customer offering. 

Technology remains an important enabler in the growth of DriveX. The company has also developed in-house apps that streamline the vehicle procurement process and make customer interaction much more seamless, resulting in a smooth buying experience for refurbished two-wheelers. This is part of DriveX's strategy to keep them ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing marketplace. 

This ambitious roadmap for DriveX envisages a pan-India presence with 500 retail outlets by 2027. DriveX is well on its way to transforming the refurbished two-wheeler market across the country, with a strategic focus on innovation, expansion, and customer satisfaction.

Prime Video Unveils a Charming Slice-of-Life Trailer for Its Tamil Original Series Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam

Set in a remote Tamil Nadu village, the series delightfully blends humor with heartwarming moments through a simple yet gripping narrative

Directed by Naga, the Tamil Original series Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam is written by Balakumaran Murugesan and produced under the banner of The Viral Fever (TVF)

Soulful and melodious music compositions of MS Krsna add a captivating depth and richness to the narrative

Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide on September 20

Trailer Link [Here]

 *MUMBAI—September 13, 2024— Prime Video,* India’s most loved entertainment destination, unveiled a heartwarming trailer of its upcoming Tamil Original series Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam, today. Directed by Naga, the series has been written by Balakumaran Murugesan and produced under the banner of The Viral Fever (TVF). This eight-episode comedy drama follows the journey of a young boy from the big city who navigates the challenges of his new and unfamiliar surroundings in the remote village of Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam. This family entertainer boasts an exceptionally talented cast, featuring Abishek Kumar, Chetan Kadambi, Devadarshini, Niyathi, Anand Sami, and Paul Raj in pivotal roles. Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide on September 20 in Tamil, with subtitles in English. Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam is the latest addition to the Prime membership. Prime members in India enjoy savings, convenience, and entertainment, all in a single membership for just ₹1499/ year.

The trailer of Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam invites viewers into Sidharth’s world as he adapts to the quirks of rural life, navigating a village filled with eccentric characters and unforeseen challenges. With sharp dialogues, witty punchlines, and humorous moments, the series beautifully captures the essence of the rural landscape while exploring the village's power dynamics. It skillfully blends emotions such as genuine desires, lofty ambitions, empathy, and jealousy into a simple yet moralistic tale. The cast’s outstanding performances bring depth and realism to the characters, making them truly multi-dimensional. Complemented by  MS Krsna’s melodious and soulful music, the series' charm is further elevated, with the evocative melodies intricately weaving through the narrative and enhancing the storyline.

Naga, the director of the series, shared, “Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam tells a heartfelt story about rural life, seamlessly blending humor with important themes of community and tradition. Working with TVF and Prime Video has been a fantastic experience; their belief in my vision and unwavering support were essential in bringing this show to life. It has been a pleasure collaborating with such a talented cast and crew, which has added incredible depth to the story. Thanks to Prime Video’s worldwide reach, our labour of love will go far and wide, both within the country and internationally, and I am confident that viewers will find this binge-worthy drama truly enjoyable.”

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_2OkWEg1RM/?igsh=aGptZnFuMjBpdnRk

Abishek Kumar, who plays the lead role of Sidharth in the series, shared, “Working on Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam has been an incredible journey, and being directed by Naga sir has been a tremendous learning experience. I portray a character who is suddenly pulled out of his comfort zone and has to navigate a world completely different from what he’s used to. The series beautifully combines humour with the real-life challenges of a city boy living in a rural village in Tamil Nadu. I’m sure viewers will enjoy the unexpected twists and turns that Sidharth’s life takes. I’m eagerly looking forward to the series premiering on Prime Video in India and across 240 countries and territories on September 20th. 

“I am always on the lookout for roles that offer something different and unique. In Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam, I play a character who is deeply connected to the people in his village, always thinking of others. I found him instantly relatable—a mix of humour and emotional depth that allowed me to explore a wide range of emotions. What makes this project even more special is getting to work alongside my wife and daughter in the series. I’m confident viewers will love this light-hearted show, filled with a rollercoaster of emotions, and I can’t wait for it to launch globally on Prime Video,” said Chetan Kadambi, who portrays Meenakshi Sundaram in the series.

Devadarshini, who portrays Meenakshi Devi, shared, “Being part of a comedy-drama like Thalaivettiyaan Paalayam has been a beautiful experience. Playing Meenakshi Devi allowed me to portray a character who, like many women, is dedicated to her family and daily responsibilities. However, the humour and surprising twists in the storyline make her stand out. She’s the voice of reason in the village, and I loved bringing her practical and grounded personality to the screen. I’m eagerly awaiting the series premiere on Prime Video on September 20th.”

Empowering Change: Jubilant Bhartia Foundation and Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship honours Social Entrepreneur of the Year - India 2024

 The Jubilant Bhartia Foundation and the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, the sister organization of the World Economic Forum, honoured Mr Akshay Saxena of Avanti Fellows with the esteemed Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award - India 2024. The award was presented by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas in the presence of distinguished personalities from industry, government and civil society at a ceremony held at New Delhi. 

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, congratulated the winner and finalists. He appreciated the innovative challenges undertaken by social entrepreneurs in positively impacting lives and environment. Minister Puri said, “Social enterprises have been part of Indian fabric for a very long time. They typically cater to low income communities, typically agriculture, financial inclusion, health and education, clean energy.” He complimented government, social sector and corporates working together in partnership. He highlighted that Social enterprises have played a crucial role in upward mobility of millions of Indians over the years. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Hilde Schwab, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship highlighted, “Social entrepreneurs have achieved remarkable milestones by addressing challenges in unconventional ways. Today, when the world is moving from an industrial age to an intelligent age, social entrepreneurs are catalysts for innovation and positive impact, benefiting both people and the planet. Their dedication to delivering impactful solutions for unmet needs has been truly extraordinary.” 

Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder & Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum and Co-Founder of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, observed the growing alignment between corporates and social entrepreneurs. He mentioned how India’s social innovation landscape is offering globally relevant models for the sustainable development agenda. “The Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship is proud to have partnered with the Jubilant Bhartia Foundation in recognizing the outstanding contributions of Indian social entrepreneurs over the past 15 years”, he said.

Mr. Shyam S Bhartia, Chairman and Founder, Jubilant Bhartia Group and Founder Director of Jubilant Bhartia Foundation, congratulated the winner and all the finalists.  In a significant announcement, Mr. Shyam Bhartia stated, “I am happy to announce that Jubilant Bhartia Group has signed the Rise Ahead Pledge, a new initiative of the Schwab Foundation and the Global Alliance for Social Entrepreneurship. The Rise Ahead Pledge is a commitment towards increasing investments into social innovation. Thus, Jubilant Bhartia Group has become the first Indian company to sign this pledge.” In alignment with their commitment and the Global Alliance, Mr. Bhartia announced the establishment of the “Jubilant Bhartia Centre for Social Impact” supported by the Schwab Foundation. This centre will nurture emerging innovators and entrepreneurs, foster collaboration among past Social Entrepreneur of the Year (SEOY) winners, and support social start-ups. By offering resources, mentorship, networking opportunities, and world-class facilities, they aim to empower social entrepreneurs to achieve significant societal impact. Additionally, there would be a partnership with IIM-Ahmedabad Ventures.

Mr. Hari S Bhartia, Co- Chairman & Founder, Jubilant Bhartia Group, in his vote of thanks commended the enterprising spirit of social entrepreneurs and said that the corporates can learn from the experience of social innovators, their problem solving abilities to address the needs of the society. 

Airtel Africa Foundation unveils ‘Airtel Africa Fellowship Program’ to empower students at IIT Madras Zanzibar

 ZANZIBAR/CHENNAI/NEW DELHI, 10th September 2024: The Airtel Africa Foundation today announced the launch of the prestigious ‘Airtel Africa Fellowship Program’ for the undergraduate students at IIT Madras Zanzibar, the first-ever foreign campus established by an IIT. The Fellowship aims to support deserving students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in Zanzibar. Starting with an outlay of US$500,000, this program will benefit 10 undergraduate students, for their entire course duration of 4 years. 

Founded in 2024 with a vision to foster a prosperous Africa, the Airtel Africa Foundation is dedicated to advancing digital and financial inclusion across the continent along with key focus on education and environmental protection. This Fellowship is the maiden initiative undertaken to enhance educational opportunities for meritorious students, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, enrolled at IIT M Zanzibar. It is designed to support students from 14 African countries, which are namely Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, Rwanda, DRC, Niger, Chad, Congo B, Gabon, Madagascar and Seychelles.

Recipients of this scholarship will be known as ‘Airtel Africa Fellows’. They will receive 100% of their college fees i.e. US$12,000 as per the course fee structure of the Institute for a 4-year program. Additionally, to cover the living expense cost, US$500 will be given to all eligible students. This initiative will aspire to transform, shape lives and nurture future leaders who will contribute to technological innovation and economic growth of Africa.

Commenting on the fellowship scheme, Zanzibar’s Minister of Education and Vocational Training, H.E. Ms Lela Mohamed Mussa said, “IITM Zanzibar is charting a wonderful path in technical education in the region. Providing access to this high quality education to students from Tanzania and the rest of the continent, who are topping the IITM Zanzibar screening and test processes, through financial assistance, is an important priority for us. We are thankful to this support from Airtel Africa Foundation, which will enhance our own efforts in this direction.”

The Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr. Olusegun Ogunsanya said, “We are pleased to partner with IIT Madras Zanzibar to provide opportunities for young Africans to access quality education. This initiative aims to contribute towards creating a prosperous and sustainable continent. We look forward to creating even more opportunities not just in education, but also in financial and digital inclusion, and environmental protection”.

The Director of IIT Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti said, “IIT Madras is committed to establishing a world class campus in Zanzibar. We are delighted that Airtel Africa Foundation is joining hands with us in this effort. We look forward to welcoming the second cohort of bright young students to the IITM Zanzibar campus this year. We are immensely grateful to Airtel Africa Foundation for providing financial assistance for these future global leaders.”

-ENDS-

Enquiries 

Airtel Africa

Emeka Oparah

Vice-President Communications & CSR

Emeka.oparah@africa.airtel.com 

Bharti Enterprises

Mehak Kapur

DGM, Corporate Communications

mehak.kapur@bharti.in 

Hudson Sandler

Cosmas Butunyi, Eugene Ng’ang’a

airtelafrica@hudsonsandler.com

(+44) 20 7796 4133

About Airtel Africa Foundation

Airtel Africa Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Airtel Africa, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, with a presence in 14 countries in Africa, primarily in East Africa and Central and West Africa. The vision of the Airtel Africa Foundation is a prosperous Africa for all. It is working to increase digital and literacy and skills, expand digital infrastructure in underserved areas, promote economic empowerment for women, expand access to education and address environmental degradation by advocating for and implementing sustainable practices.

Follow Airtel Africa Foundation on LINKEDIN

ABOUT IIT MADRAS

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) was established in 1959 by the Government of India as an ‘Institute of National Importance.’ The activities of the Institute in various fields of Science and Technology are carried out in 18 academic departments and several advanced interdisciplinary research academic centres. The Institute offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes leading to B.Tech., M.Sc., M.B.A., M.Tech., M.S., and Ph.D., degrees in a variety of specialisations. IITM is a residential institute with more than 600 faculty and 9,500 students. Students from 18 countries are enrolled here. IITM fosters an active entrepreneurial culture with strong curricular support and through the IITM Incubation Cell.

Recognized as an Institution of Eminence (IoE) in 2019, IITM has been ranked No.1 in the ‘Overall’ Category for the sixth consecutive year in India Ranking 2024 released by National Institutional Ranking Framework, Ministry of Education, Govt. of India. The Institute has also been ranked No.1 in the ‘Engineering Institutions’ category in the same Rankings for nine consecutive years – from 2016 to 2024. It was also adjudged as the ‘Top innovative Institution’ in the country in Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) in 2019, 2020 and 2021. ARIIA Ranking was launched by the Innovation Cell of Ministry of Education. 

Follow IIT Madras on FACEBOOK / TWITTER / LINKEDIN / INSTAGRAM / YOUTUBE

MEDIA CONTACT FOR IIT MADRAS

IIT Madras Media Cell - Email: media.iitmadras@imail.iitm.ac.in / Landline: 044 2257 9785

Ahead of the release of The Buckingham Murders, Ektaa R Kapoor and Hansal Mehta seek blessings from Lalbaugcha Raja!

Kareena Kapoor Khan's The Buckingham Murders is nearing its release, and the mystery thriller is all set to hit theaters on September 13th. While the trailer has set the right tone for the film's arrival, everyone is eagerly looking forward to its release. With the film just three days away, producer Ektaa R Kapoor and director Hansal Mehta visited Lalbaugcha Raja to seek blessings.

It seems that as much as the audience is excited for the release of The Buckingham Murders, the makers are equally pumped up. Ahead of the film’s release, producer Ektaa R Kapoor and director Hansal Mehta paid a visit to Lalbaugcha Raja in Mumbai to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha.

The Buckingham Murders will be released exclusively in cinemas on September 13, 2024. The film features an exceptional ensemble cast, including Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ash Tandon, Ranveer Brar, and Keith Allen. Directed by Hansal Mehta and written by Aseem Arrora, Kashyap Kapoor, and Raghav Raj Kakker, it is a Mahana Films and TBM Films production, presented by Balaji Telefilms and produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, and first-time producer Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Revolutionizing Credit: Fintechs Capture 52% Market Share in India's Lending Boom, Reveals New White Paper by Experian India

Mumbai, September 10, 2024: Experian India has unveiled a new white paper titled "Small is BIG: How Fintechs are Revolutionising Lending". The report highlights the rapidly growing role of fintech companies in providing small-ticket loans to underserved segments of the population, demonstrating how technology is revolutionizing the lending landscape in India.

 

The white paper reveals that fintech companies have facilitated over ₹2,48,006 Crores of Personal Loan and ₹28,607 Crores Business Loans as of March 2024. These loans, often under ₹50,000, have primarily reached New-to-Credit (NTC) individuals, those with thin credit files, and sub-prime borrowers, many of whom were previously excluded from the formal financial system.

 

Fintech Impact on Financial Inclusion

According to the report, fintech companies have expanded their reach with a market share of 52% in personal loans, providing critical financial access to those who have historically been underserved. The penetration of fintech into rural and semi-urban areas has grown significantly. The penetration of personal loans has increased by 24% in Bihar, 21% in Tamil Nadu and 20% in Uttar Pradesh in FY’24 compared to FY ‘23. For Business loans, the growth rate is 133% in Karnataka, 118% in Uttar Pradesh and 67% Bihar for the same time period. This highlights the significant progress in financial inclusion in the country.

 

Asset Quality and Risk Management

The report also sheds light on the challenges fintech companies face, particularly in managing asset quality. It notes that while fintechs have been able to cater to high-risk segments, the Non-Performing Asset (NPA) ratio for fintech-originated loans stands higher than the industry average. This underscores the need for fintechs to enhance their risk management frameworks, especially when dealing with overleveraged customers. The white paper suggests that improved data analytics and more robust credit scoring models could help mitigate these risks.

 

Technological Innovation Driving Growth

A key finding in the white paper is the pivotal role of technology in driving the fintech revolution. The adoption of the latest technology and tools has enabled fintechs to significantly reduce loan approval time. Blockchain technology is also highlighted as a game-changer, particularly in enhancing transparency and reducing fraud in loan disbursement.

Moreover, the white paper points out that fintechs are leading the way in sectors like green finance, to support sustainable and environmentally friendly projects. Similarly, fintech companies have made significant inroads into the Agri-finance sector, helping to support millions of small farmers.

 

Government Support and Regulatory Environment

The white paper discusses the importance of the supportive regulatory environment in India, which has been crucial in enabling fintech growth. Initiatives like the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and regulatory sandboxes have provided fintechs with the opportunity to innovate and scale their operations while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The paper notes that the introduction of Account Aggregators and Open Credit Enablement Networks (OCEN) has further empowered fintech companies, allowing them to offer more personalized and inclusive financial products.

 

Future Outlook

Looking forward, the white paper suggests that fintech companies could potentially double their customer base to 200 million within the next three years if they continue to innovate and address current challenges. It also recommends that fintechs learn from the strategies of successful Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India, particularly secured lending and exploring new market segments.

Manish Jain, Country Managing Director at Experian India, said, "The fintech revolution in India is just beginning, and there’s enormous potential for growth. Fintech companies have already made a big impact by providing credit to those who need it most, but there’s still more to be done. The insights in this white paper highlight both the opportunities and challenges ahead.

 

As we move forward, it’s essential for fintechs to maintain a delicate balance between innovation and responsibility. While the use of technologies like AI and machine learning allows for greater reach and efficiency, it also requires a strong framework for risk management. The financial ecosystem in India is evolving rapidly, and fintechs are at the heart of this transformation. They are not only helping to drive financial inclusion but also setting new standards for how credit is delivered in a digital age.

 

To sustain this momentum, collaboration will be key—between fintechs, traditional financial institutions, and regulators. Together, we can create a more inclusive and robust financial system that caters to every segment of society. This white paper serves as a valuable guide for all stakeholders, offering a roadmap to navigate the future of lending in India."

 

Link for the Report: https://www.experian.in/how-fintechs-are-revolutionising-lending/

About Experian

 

Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. We help to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using our unique combination of data, analytics and software. We also assist millions of people to realise their financial goals and help them to save time and money.

 

We operate across a range of markets, from financial services to healthcare, automotive, Agri finance, insurance, and many more industry segments.

 

We invest in talented people and new advanced technologies to unlock the power of data and innovate. As a FTSE 100 Index company listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN), we have a team of 22,500 people across 32 countries. Our corporate headquarters are in Dublin, Ireland. Learn more at experianplc.com.

 

Learn more at experianplc.com or visit our global content hub at our global news blog for the latest news and insights from the Group.

 

Shriram Finance Welcomes Cricket Legend Rahul Dravid as Brand Ambassador

From Left to Right - Mr. Y S Chakravarti, MD & CEO, Shriram Finance, Mr. Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman, Shriram Finance, Mr. Rahul Dravid, Former Captain and Coach of the Indian National Cricket Team, and Mr. Parag Sharma, MD & CFO, Shriram Finance

Mumbai, 10 September 2024: Shriram Finance Ltd., the flagship company of the Shriram Group, proudly announces the onboarding of former Captain and Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team, Rahul Dravid, as their Brand Ambassador. This partnership unites two iconic entities renowned for their trust and reliability.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

 

Rahul Dravid, celebrated for his unwavering dedication on the cricket field, epitomizes the core values that Shriram Finance upholds. Just as Rahul was the backbone of Indian Cricket, Shriram Finance has been a steadfast partner in the financial journeys of countless individuals and businesses across the nation.

 

Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman, Shriram Finance: “At Shriram Finance, our mission has always been to empower our customers by providing them with the financial tools and support they need to succeed. Rahul Dravid, with his commitment and impeccable record in nurturing young talent, aligns perfectly with our goal of enabling growth and success. We are thrilled to have him on board as our brand ambassador.”

 

YS Chakravarti, Managing Director and CEO, Shriram Finance: “Rahul Dravid’s association with Shriram Finance represents a perfect blend of two entities that have consistently demonstrated trust, reliability, and excellence in their respective fields. Just as Rahul has been a pillar of strength for Indian cricket, Shriram Finance has been a reliable partner to our customers, helping them achieve their financial goals with confidence and security.”

 

Rahul Dravid, Former Captain and Coach of the Indian National Cricket Team: “I am honored to be associated with Shriram Finance, a company that has consistently prioritized the needs of its customers. Just as in cricket, where every innings is built on a foundation of trust and resilience, Shriram Finance has been building and supporting the financial journeys of individuals and businesses across India. I look forward to this partnership and to contributing to the company’s continued success.”

 

Shriram Finance is confident that this strategic association with Rahul Dravid will significantly advance its goals. This partnership not only strengthens Shriram Finance’s mission to positively impact the financial well-being of individuals and businesses in India but also reinforces its commitment to the values of trust and reliability that Rahul Dravid personifies on and off the field.

 

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)’s new business premium for August 2024 sees 35% increase YoY to Rs 19,309 crore

Monday, September 09, 2024: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), the nation's largest life insurance company saw a 35.10% surge in its new business premium for August 2024, to ₹19,309.10 crore, from ₹14,292.53 crore in August 2023. 

Data reported by Life Insurance Council shows that Life Insurance Corporation’s new business premium collection for the first five months of fiscal 2025 rose by 27.73% to ₹95,180.63 crore, up from ₹74,516.31 crore in the same period last year. 

LIC's New Business Premium

Month April 2023 to March 2024 (FY24) April 2024 to March 2025 (FY25)

April 5,810.1 12,383.64

May 14,056.29 16,690.39

June 24,970.82 28,366.87

July 15,386.57 18,430.63

August 14,292.53 19,309.10

Total 74,516.31 95,180.63

Source: Life Insurance Council

Breaking down the premium collections, LIC's Individual Premium segment saw collections of ₹5,047.36 crore in August 2024, representing a 4.60% rise from ₹4,825.52 crore in August 2023. 

The Group Premium segment experienced a significant increase of 46%, amounting to ₹13,559.22 crore in August 2024, compared to ₹9,287.40 crore in August 2023. 

Notably, Group Yearly Premiums surged by 291.14% to ₹702.52 crore in August 2024, a substantial increase from ₹179.61 crore in the previous year.

For the first five months of fiscal year 2025, LIC's Individual Premium segment accrued ₹22,396.28 crore, marking an 11.75% growth from ₹20,041.36 crore during the same period in fiscal year 2024. The Group Premium segment also saw considerable growth, up by 32.82% to ₹71,789.38 crore, from ₹54,049.22 crore last year. Group Yearly Premiums increased by 133.71%, totalling ₹994.97 crore in the first five months of fiscal 2025, compared to ₹425.72 crore in the corresponding period of fiscal 2024.

The total number of policies and schemes issued by LIC in August 2024 experienced a slight decline of 4.45%, reaching 16.36 lakh, down from 17.12 lakh in August 2023. In the Individual category, the number of policies and schemes also fell by 4.47% to 16.33 lakh in August 2024, compared to 17.09 lakh in the previous year. However, the number of Group Yearly Renewable policies and schemes increased by 2.31% to 2,698 in August 2024, up from 2,637 in August 2023. Similarly, Group schemes and policies rose by 23.74% to 490 in August 2024, compared to 396 in August 2023.

For the first five months of FY25, LIC saw a 3.65% increase in the total number of policies and schemes issued, reaching 68.35 lakh compared to 65.95 lakh in the same period the previous year. Within the Individual category, the number of policies and schemes rose by 3.65% to 68.22 lakh, up from 65.82 lakh in FY24. Additionally, Group Yearly Renewable policies and schemes grew by 3.02% to 11,220 in the first five months of FY25, compared to 8,254 in the same period last year, while Group schemes and policies increased by 14.92% to 2,080, from 1,810 in the first five months of FY24.

Source: https://www.lifeinscouncil.org/industry%20information/nbp.aspx

Deep Industries Ltd receives order worth ₹ 1,402 Cr for Production Enhancement Operations from ONGC

• This is Company’s biggest ever order so far taking total order book to more than double

• The order is for Production Enhancement Operations in Mature Fields at Rajahmundry Asset of ONGC

• Duration of the project is 15 years

Ahmedabad, Sep 9, 2024:

Deep Industries Ltd (DIL), a leading integrated solutions provider for Oil & Gas field operations, has announced a significant order win valued at ₹1,402 crore from Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC). The contract is for Production Enhancement Operations in the mature fields of ONGC's Rajahmundry Asset and spans a duration of 15 years. This is the largest project awarded to the company to date, more than doubling its current order book. As on June 30, 2024, the Company’s order book stood at ₹ 1,246 Cr.

Commenting on the significant win, Mr. Paras Savla, MD, Deep Industries Ltd. said, “We are thrilled to announce this landmark achievement as we extend our expertise into Production Enhancement Contracts (PEC). This strategic win positions us to play an increasingly integral role in the evolving oil and gas services value chain. With over three decades of experience in the sector, Deep Industries is well-equipped to optimize oil and gas production through the deployment of proven, advanced techniques.

The PEC framework not only broadens our revenue streams but also enhances our profitability, making it a value-accretive proposition for our stakeholders. We remain confident in our ability to deliver exceptional outcomes, driving sustainable growth and long-term success.”

Production Enhancement Contracts (PEC) are aimed at increasing the production of hydrocarbons from the ageing, depleted and mature fields typically spanning around 15 years beyond the original life of the asset. At Rajahmundry asset, ONGC wishes to further develop hydrocarbon reserves from the Contract Areas in a way that improves current production and ultimate recovery of hydrocarbons by application of safe and efficient operating practices and suitable techniques and technologies.

About Deep Industries Ltd.

Deep Industries Ltd. is specialized in providing various Oil & Gas support services since more than 30 years. The Services portfolio includes Natural Gas Compression, Natural Gas Dehydration, Workover and Drilling Rigs Services, and Integrated Project Management Services. The Company is now ‘One Stop Solution Provider’ for every need of Oil and Gas field operations and services. Its comprehensive services portfolio is well supported by wide range of equipment used right from Exploration & Production to Mid Stream Services along with skilled manpower while maintaining safety and quality.

Deep started its journey in 90’s by pioneering Gas Compression services on charter hire basis and has further expanded into various other services over a period of time. Deep has also pioneered the charter hiring of Natural Gas Dehydration and is the only Indian company providing Integrated Project Management Services. Recently, as a part of ‘Value Added Offerings’ Deep has forayed into providing entire Gas Processing Facilities on charter hire basis and has become the first entity in the country to provide such one of its kind services.

PNB Housing Finance Joins Hands with Niramay Charitable Trust to Boost Digital Literacy Among Nursing Students

Inaugurates PEHEL Computer Labs in Two Gujarat Government Nursing Colleges

9th Sept: PNB Housing Finance, a leading housing finance company in India, has inaugurated Pehel Computer Labs in collaboration with Niramay Charitable Trust through its CSR arm, Pehel Foundation. The state-of-the-art computer labs, established in the Government Nursing College Ahmedabad and Surat, aim to enhance digital literacy among nursing students and faculty. The facilities will help more than 1000 students and faculties across both the colleges with online study material, references, assignments, and projects to promote nursing education and research. 

The labs are equipped with latest technology and devices like computers, printers and high-speed internet connections, along with modern infrastructure, to offer a conducive learning environment and significantly promote nursing education and research.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Girish Kousgi, MD & CEO of PNB Housing Finance said, “One of the key intervention areas at Pehel Foundation is education, and our initiatives aim to elevate educational quality and accessibility through targeted support programmes across multiple regions. Our partnership with Niramay Charitable Trust will help nursing students and faculties get access to latest study material online, thereby promoting digital literacy among them. We believe that this initiative will foster progressive growth of the country.”

Dr Hariprakash Hadial, Program Director and Dr Apurva Ratnu, Managing Director, Niramay Charitable Trust, added, “We are grateful to PNB Housing Finance for their support and collaboration on this new initiative to launch Pehel Computer Labs. Through this partnership, we look forward to working together and making a positive impact on the lives of nursing students to help achieve their future aspirations.”

PNB Housing Finance and Pehel Foundation remain committed to supporting educational initiatives that empower individuals and communities, fostering a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

About PNB Housing Finance Limited: PNB Housing Finance Limited (NSE: PNBHOUSING, BSE: 540173) is promoted by Punjab National Bank and is a registered Housing Finance Company with National Housing Bank (NHB). The Company was listed on the Indian stock exchanges on 07 November 2016. The Company’s asset base comprises retail loans and corporate loans. The retail business focuses on organized mass housing segment financing for the acquisition or construction of houses. In addition, it also provides loans against properties and loans for the purchase & construction of non-residential premises. Corporate loans are mainly to developers for the construction of residential/commercial properties, corporate term loans and lease rental discounting. PNB Housing Finance is a deposit-taking Housing Finance Company.

Union Bank of India Becomes First Major Indian Bank to Sign PCAF

Union Bank of India has announced its decision to become a signatory to the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF). This step aligns with the growing global emphasis on climate risk management and the recent draft guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on climate risk disclosures.

PCAF is a global partnership of financial institutions working to develop and implement a harmonized approach to assess and disclose greenhouse gas emissions associated with loans and investments. By joining PCAF, Union Bank of India demonstrates its commitment to measuring and managing its financed emissions, a crucial aspect of climate risk management for Banks.

Financed emissions, often referred to as Scope 3 emissions, represent the indirect emissions that result from a Bank's lending and investment activities. These emissions can significantly outweigh a Bank's operational emissions and pose substantial risks to its portfolio in the face of climate change and evolving regulations.

The importance of tracking financed emissions has been underscored by the RBI's recent draft guidelines on 'Disclosure framework on climate-related financial risks, 2024', issued on February 28, 2024. The framework mandates regulated entities to disclose information on four key areas: governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics and targets. The RBI's draft guidelines signal a shift towards more stringent climate risk reporting for Indian Banks. Union Bank of India's proactive stance in becoming a PCAF signatory is likely to give it a head start in meeting these upcoming regulatory requirements.

Industry observers note that this move positions UNION BANK OF INDIA at the forefront of climate risk management in the Indian Banking sector. The Bank's adoption of PCAF's methodology is expected to enhance its ability to set targets and develop strategies aligned with global climate goals.

         

Gujarat Titans' Larger-Than-Life Art Installation to Celebrate Shubman Gill's 25th Birthday

Gujarat Titans will unveil a never-seen-before art installation of their skipper, Shubman Gill, at Boxpark, Gota, Ahmedabad, to celebrate his 25th birthday. The event will take place on September 8, starting at 10 AM. Fans can watch the unveiling happen before their eyes by visiting Boxpark.

Fans attending the event will also have the opportunity to participate in contests and win GT hampers. Additionally, a dedicated wall will be set up for fans to write their messages and wishes to Shubman.

 

The installation will be on display for a week, offering fans an opportunity to be part of Shubman's birthday celebration.

Daadi, Kahaan Hai Khazana?”Sohum Shah Unveils Haunting New Tumbbad Poster Ahead of Re-Release

*Sohum Shah Raises Anticipation with New Tumbbad Poster Ahead of September 13th Re-Release*

Sohum Shah has once again stirred excitement among fans with a mesmerizing new poster, teasing the highly anticipated re-release of Tumbbad. Originally released in 2018, Tumbbad became a cinematic marvel, earning praise for its haunting blend of mythology, horror, and greed. Now, audiences will get another chance to experience its magic when it returns to theaters on September 13, 2024, presented by Eros Now.

After teasing fans and audiences alike with captivating posters and the much-awaited trailer, the makers have now unveiled another thrilling poster that immerses viewers into the chilling world of Tumbbad. The poster features a haunting image of an old woman lying entangled in dark, twisted branches, hinting at the sinister depths of greed that drive the narrative. With the tagline “Daadi, kahan hai khazana?” prominently displayed, the poster further emphasizes the central theme of obsession with hidden treasure, leaving a deep impact with its eerie visual and unsettling tone.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_kMka9IRwN/?igsh=MXhmb250cHdoemV0Zw==

Tumbbad was a critical success, earning eight nominations at the 64th Filmfare Awards and winning three for Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Sound Design. It was also the first Indian film to premiere in the Critics’ Week section of the 75th Venice International Film Festival.

As the film gears up for its re-release, this is not just another screening—it’s a rare invitation to revisit a world that remains unmatched in Indian cinema. With no OTT availability in 2024, watching Tumbbad on the big screen is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Tumbbad is directed by Rahi Anil Barve, with Anand Gandhi as the creative director and Adesh Prasad as the co-director. Written by Mitesh Shah, Prasad, Barve, and Gandhi, the film was produced by Sohum Shah, Aanand L. Rai, Mukesh Shah, and Amita Shah. Alongside Sohum Shah, the film also stars Jyoti Malshe and Anita Date-Kelkar.

हयात प्लेसने महाराष्ट्रात आपला विस्तार केला आहे आणि आता हयात प्लेस औरंगाबाद विमानतळ सुरू केले आहे.

हे हॉटेल विमानतळापासून केवळ 1 किलोमीटर अंतरावर असून शहराच्या व्यावसायिक क्षेत्राच्या जवळ आहे.

CHICAGO (September 5, 2024): हयात हॉटेल्स कॉर्पोरेशनने आज हयात प्लेस औरंगाबाद विमानतळाजवळ सुरू करण्याची घोषणा केली आहे. हे हॉटेल महाराष्ट्र राज्यातील दुसरे हयात प्लेस हॉटेल आणि देशातील अकरावे हयात प्लेस हॉटेल म्हणून ओळखले जाणार आहे. यामुळे भारतीय बाजारपेठेतील ब्रँडचे महत्त्व पुन्हा एकदा अधोरेखित होते. १५० खोल्यांची मालमत्ता हयात प्लेस ब्रँडची अंतर्गत रचना, प्रासंगिक वातावरण आणि उन्नत सुविधांचे उदाहरण देते.

छत्रपती संभाजीनगर (औरंगाबाद) विमानतळ आणि शहराच्या शेंद्रा एमआयडीसी आणि वाळूज एमआयडीसी या दोन्ही आर्थिक क्षेत्रांजवळ स्थित असून, हॉटेल आजच्या सतत व्यस्त राहणाऱ्या प्रवाशासाठी नावीन्य आणि २४/७ सुविधा देते. हे हॉटेल ऐतिहासिक महत्त्व असलेल्या बीबी का मकबरा यांसारख्या जवळच्या पर्यटन स्थळांच्या जवळ आहे आणि अतिथींना अजिंठा आणि एलोरा लेण्यांच्या प्रसिद्ध युनेस्को जागतिक वारसा स्थळांमध्ये सहज जाता येईल.

हयात प्लेस शहरात व्यवसायासाठी आणि विश्रांतीसाठी प्रवास करणाऱ्या पाहुण्यांसाठी योग्य ठिकाण आहे. हॉटेलच्या विस्तृत सुविधांमध्ये झिंग रेस्टॉरंट, झिंग बार आणि द मार्केट, विशेष कार्यक्रम आणि बैठकीची जागा, फिटनेस सेंटर आणि स्विमिंग पूल यासह अनेक पर्याय समाविष्ट आहेत.

“हयात प्लेस औरंगाबाद ही महाराष्ट्र राज्यातील सातवी हयात-ब्रँडेड मालमत्ता आहे, जी या प्रदेशाप्रती बांधिलकी अधोरेखित करते.आम्ही आमचा धोरणात्मक विस्तार सुरू ठेवण्यास उत्सुक आहोत, आमच्या पाहुण्यांच्या प्राधान्यांशी जुळणाऱ्या गंतव्यस्थानांपर्यंत आमची उपस्थिती वाढवण्यास आणि मालक आणि विकासकांना आमच्या जागतिक वितरण नेटवर्कचा आणि वर्ल्ड ऑफ हयात लॉयल्टी प्रोग्रामच्या फायद्यांचा लाभ घेण्याची संधी देण्यासाठी आम्ही उत्सुक आहोत, असे हयातचे उपाध्यक्ष ध्रुवा राठौर म्हणाले. 

उद्घाटनाविषयी भाष्य करताना, हयात प्लेस औरंगाबाद विमानतळाचे महाव्यवस्थापक अमित जैन म्हणाले की, हयात प्लेस ब्रँड छत्रपती संभाजीनगर (औरंगाबाद) येथे आल्याने आम्हाला आनंद होत आहे, यामुळे व्यावसायिक आणि आरामदायी प्रवास करणाऱ्यांना जागतिक स्तरावरील आराम आणि सुविधा प्रदान मिळतील. आमची समर्पित टीम अपवादात्मक सेवा देण्यासाठी आणि प्रत्येक अतिथीचा मुक्काम संस्मरणीय आणि आनंददायक असेल याची खात्री करण्यासाठी उत्सुक आहे.

हयात प्लेस औरंगाबाद मध्ये १५० प्रशस्त खोल्या आहेत, प्रत्येक डिझाइन केलेल्या आणि आधुनिक सुविधा आणि वैशिष्ट्यांसह आधुनिक काळातील प्रवाश्यांच्या गरजा पूर्ण करण्यासाठी सज्ज आहेत. प्रत्येक खोलीत अत्याधुनिक मीडिया आणि वर्क सेंटर, ५५ इंचाचा स्मार्ट टीव्ही, आरामदायी कोझी कॉर्नर सोफा आणि सुंदर डिझाइन केलेले बाथरूम आहेत. या मालमत्तेमध्ये बाल्कनीसह प्रत्येकी पाच सूट, एक किंग सूट आणि अतिथींना आराम मिळावा यासाठी भारदस्त सजावट आणि सामान तसेच पूल दृश्यासह त्यांची स्वतःची खासगी मैदानी जागा देखील आहे.

हयात प्लेस अतिथींना आवारात आनंद घेण्यासाठी विविध पाककृती पर्याय देते. ऑन-साइट रेस्टॉरंट झिंग प्रेरणादायी आशियाई, इटालियन आणि भारतीय ऑफरसह विस्तृत बुफे आणि अला कार्टे मेनू देते. हॉटेल लॉबीमध्ये स्थित झिंग बार स्पिरिट्स आणि कॉकटेलच्या निवडीचे नमुने घेताना आराम करण्यासाठी एक आदर्श जागा प्रदान करते. प्रवासात येणारे पाहुणे ताजे बनवलेल्या कॉफी, सँडविच किंवा बेकरी आयटमसाठी ग्रॅब एन गो कॅफे द मार्केटमध्ये देखील थांबू शकतात. अतिथी उपलब्ध मेनूमधून खोलीतील जेवणाची ऑर्डर देखील देऊ शकतात.

हयात प्लेस औरंगाबाद ५०,००० चौरस फुटांहून अधिक स्पेशलाइज्ड इव्हेंट स्पेस ऑफर करते ज्यात कोणत्याही आकाराच्या कार्यक्रमांना सामावून घेण्यासाठी बाहेरची जागा समाविष्ट आहे. येथे औरंगाबादच्या सभोवतालच्या टेकड्यांचे सुंदर दृश्य असलेले पहिल्या मजल्यावर हिरवेगार लॉन आणि अत्याधुनिक दृकश्राव्य उपकरणांनी सुसज्ज अनेक बैठक जागा - प्रत्येकामध्ये अतिरिक्त नियोजन, आयोजन आणि खानपान सेवा उपलब्ध आहेत.

अधिक माहितीसाठी, कृपया भेट द्या: हयात प्लेस औरंगाबाद विमानतळ.

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Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation and 24/7 conveniences to create an easy to navigate experience for today’s multi-tasking traveler. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully designed guestrooms featuring distinct zones for sleep, work and play, and free flowing social spaces that offer seamless transitions from work to relaxation. With more than 420 locations globally, Hyatt Place hotels offer freshly prepared food around the clock, efficient service and differentiated experiences for World of Hyatt members. For more information, please visit hyattplace.com. Join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #HyattPlace and #WhySettle.  About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of June 30, 2024, the Company's portfolio included more than 1,350 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 78 countries across six continents. The Company's offering includes brands in the Timeless Collection, including Park Hyatt®, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios, and UrCove; the Boundless Collection, including Miraval®, Alila®, Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, Dream® Hotels, Hyatt Centric®, and Caption by Hyatt®; the Independent Collection, including The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®, Destination by Hyatt®, and JdV by Hyatt®; and the Inclusive Collection, including Impression by Secrets, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith™, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

A traditional look deserves an Ambada this Ganesh festival!

 

The Ambada is a classic hairstyle deeply rooted in Indian culture. Wearing an Ambada during festive occasions honors Indian heritage and reflects the timeless elegance of womanhood, making it a powerful cultural statement that connects women with their roots. In Maharashtra, the Ambada is especially popular during Ganesh Chaturthi, where women embrace this traditional hairstyle as part of their festive attire. This classic bun, often adorned with fragrant jasmine or marigold garlands, adds to the celebratory spirit, reflecting the deep cultural significance of the festival and the devotion to Lord Ganesha.

Haircare for the perfect Ambada: Creating the perfect Ambada is an art that requires the right kind of hair. The twists and turns of this style need hair that is soft, smooth, and manageable. This is where good hair care comes in. To achieve a flawless Ambada, it’s important to have soft nourished hair that doesn’t break easily and is manageable.

The secret to soft, manageable hair: Using Parachute Advansed Aloe Vera Enriched Coconut Hair Oil regularly can help you achieve the perfect Ambada this Ganesh Chaturthi. This oil, enriched with the goodness of coconut and aloe vera, provides the nourishment your hair needs to stay soft and healthy. Coconut intensely nourishes your hair, while aloe vera adds moisture, making it smooth and easy to style. 

So this Ganesh Chaturthi, let’s embrace the Ambada tradition with modern hair care. 

A Staggering 85%* of Indian Youth wake up fatigued, according to a Recent Supradyn Survey

● Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore top the chart with 85% or higher proportion experiencing tiredness on waking up, making the metros a breeding hub for Fatigue

● 81% of population feel that their energy keeps drowning throughout the day raising an emphasis on the need for increased level of nutrition supply amongst Indians 

● 2 in 3 people feel that they are not able to complete daily tasks during the day due to fatigue/lack of energy

India, 6th September 2024: Supradyn, India’s leading multivitamin brand from Bayer’s Consumer Health division, commissioned the Supradyn Fatigue Survey, a study conducted across 10 cities, revealing that 85%* of young Indians wake up tired among other astounding findings. Released in conjunction with National Nutrition Week, the survey underscores Supradyn’s mission of 'One Nation 100% Nutrition,' aimed at raising awareness of the growing nutrition gap and promoting self-care. The findings shed light on the alarming rise in fatigue among India’s working population, with significant regional and demographic variations.

India, with its large and dynamic youth population, faces significant challenges related to fatigue and exhaustion. The Supradyn Fatigue Survey highlights the urgent need to address factors contributing to this issue and to implement supportive measures to enhance energy and well-being. Conducted by Hansa Research Group, across 10 cities and involving men and women aged 25-45 from NCCS A and B categories, the study represents a population of 20 million. The survey states that 96% of Indians feel they lack essential micronutrients and multivitamins, leading to low energy levels.

The survey on fatigue among young Urban India in the 25-45 year age group reveals that 83% frequently need breaks due to tiredness, while 74% struggle with daytime sleepiness or staying alert hampering their productivity. Furthermore, 69% find it difficult to start or complete tasks, and 66% are unable to finish daily activities due to fatigue implying extremely low energy among our working population. Geographically as well, metros like, Pune (57%) and Bengaluru (59%) have the highest proportion of people who feel their diet lacks sufficient micronutrients. Moreover, 78% of those aged 25-35 experience daytime drowsiness, compared to 72% of the 36-45 age group. These findings highlight the significant impact of fatigue on daily life.

Sandeep Verma, Country Head of India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at Bayer Consumer Health Division, commented on the survey’s findings, “Supradyn has led the conversation on nutrition and has been a strong advocate for the importance of addressing micronutrient deficiencies. Our Supradyn Fatigue Survey reveals significant fatigue among the workforce, which directly impacts their productivity. These findings underscore the urgent need to address the nutritional gaps in our country. At Supradyn, India’s leading multivitamin brand, our mission is to champion the vital importance of 100% nutrition for optimal health of all Indians. Don’t let fatigue slow you down—energize your day with Supradyn’s balanced multivitamins and thrive!

Prof. Dr. Ketan K Mehta, Sr. Consultant Physician, CardioPulmonologist & Diabetologist, Mumbai comments, "Increased tiredness among youth is a growing concern across the country, as noted by many healthcare professionals. It's crucial for healthcare providers to address this holistically by promoting not just a balanced diet but also the use of multivitamins to bridge nutritional gaps. Food alone can provide up to 70% of essential micronutrients, leaving a significant gap. As a healthcare practitioner, I recommend a healthy diet combined with daily supplements to ensure up to 100% nutrient intake."

Listed below are additional insights reporting cohort wise behavioral statistics from ‘The Supradyn Fatigue Survey Report’ -

Glossary- *Based on morning tiredness among Urban Youth aged 25-35 years in the 10 cities covered in the survey 

About Bayer - Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, “Health for all, Hunger for none,” the company’s products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2023, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 47.6 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.8 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.    

Contact for media inquiries: 

Nikita Senava, 

Lintas Live, A Division of MullenLowe Lintas Group 

Melissa Serrao,    

Bayer (Consumer Health Division) Communications 

ICC WOMEN’S T20 WORLD CUP 2024 TROPHY TOUR GETS UNDERWAY, SPARKING GLOBAL EXCITEMENT WITH STUNNING DUBAI DISPLAY

Dubai, September 05, 2024:* With less than a month to go until the highly anticipated ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, the journey to the tournament has officially begun with the launch of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Trophy Tour, powered by DP World. The Trophy Tour made its mark in Dubai with a stunning showcase where the coveted silverware was paraded through the city’s most iconic landmarks on 3 September, marking 30 days before the tournament’s opening match at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

The trophy embarked on a spectacular 24-hour journey across Dubai, with memorable stops at scenic locations such as Half Desert Dubai, Dubai Frame, Museum of the Future, and the breath-taking Dubai Sunrise. This dazzling start set the tone for the trophy tour building anticipation for what promises to be the most exciting edition of the tournament yet.

Following the glamour of Dubai, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Trophy is set to continue its journey to India. The tour will land in Bengaluru on 6 September at the Karnataka Institute of Cricket (KIOC), a hub for nurturing young female talent in the sport before making its way to Mumbai on 10 September. Fans will have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the trophy up close at Nexus Mall, Bengaluru, on 7 and 8 September, and at Infinity Mall, Malad, Mumbai, on 14 and 15 September.

After its India leg, the Trophy Tour will continue its journey to Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, before returning to the UAE for the opening of the tournament. Each stop along the tour is part of the ICC’s broader vision to engage cricket fans across the globe and further amplify the reach of women’s cricket. The tour has been warmly embraced at every location, as the trophy brings the joy and passion of the sport to millions. 

The Trophy Tour is a central element of the ICC’s commitment to promoting the game, celebrating its players, and inspiring the next generation. With the trophy tour already generating immense excitement, the stage is set for the ninth edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 to become a defining moment in women’s sport.

*Catch all the excitement from the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 from 3d – 20h October, 2024*

Please find the glimpse for the DUBAI Trophy Tour in the link:- https://we.tl/t-vh4rHAL7BG\

P N GADGIL JEWELLERS LIMITED INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING TO OPEN ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2024

• Price Band fixed at ₹ 456 per equity share to ₹ 480 per Equity Share of face value of ₹10  each of P N Gadgil Jewellers Limited (“Equity Shares”) 

• Anchor Investor Bidding Date : Monday, September 09, 2024 

• Bid /Offer Opening Date : Tuesday, September 10, 2024 

• Bid/ Offer Closing Date : Thursday, September 12, 2024

 

• Bids can be made for a minimum of 31 Equity Shares and in multiples of 31 Equity Shares thereafter 

• The Floor Price is 46.60 times and the Cap Price is 48 times the face value of the Equity Shares.

Mumbai, September 05, 2024: P N GADGIL JEWELLERS LIMITED (the “Company”) proposes to open its initial public offering (“Offer”) on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. Bid/ Offer Closing Date will be Thursday, September 12, 2024. Anchor Investor Bidding Date is one Working Day prior to Bid/Offer Opening Date, that is, Monday, September 09, 2024.  

 

The Price Band of the Offer has been fixed from ₹456 per Equity Share to ₹480 per Equity Share. Bids can be made for a minimum of 31 Equity Shares and in multiples of 31 Equity Shares thereafter.  

The Company’s initial public offering comprises a fresh issue of equity shares of face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 8,500 million and an offer for sale of equity shares of face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 2,500 million. The total offer size comprises of equity shares of face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 11,000 million. The offer for sale comprises of equity shares of face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 2,500 million by SVG Business Trust (Promoter Selling Shareholder).

The funds raised through the IPO are proposed to be utilized for: (i) the funding of expenditure towards setting-up of 12 new stores in Maharashtra; (ii) repayment or pre-payment, in full or part, of certain borrowings availed by the Company; and (iii) general corporate purposes.

The Offer is being made in terms of Rule 19(2)(b) of the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Rules, 1957, as amended (the “SCRR”), read with Regulation 31 of the SEBI ICDR Regulations. The Offer is being made through the Book Building Process in accordance with Regulation 6(1) of the SEBI ICDR Regulations, wherein not more than 50% of the Offer shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to Qualified Institutional Buyers (“QIBs”) (the “QIB Portion”), provided that the Company, in consultation with the BRLMs, may allocate up to 60% of the QIB Portion to Anchor Investors on a discretionary basis by the Company, in consultation with the BRLMs, in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations (the “Anchor Investor Portion”), of which one-third shall be reserved for domestic Mutual Funds, subject to valid Bids being received from the domestic Mutual Funds at or above the price at which allocation is made to Anchor Investors (“Anchor Investor Allocation Price”). In the event of under-subscription or non-allocation in the Anchor Investor Portion, the balance Equity Shares shall be added to the QIB Portion (other than the Anchor Investor Portion) (the “Net QIB Portion”). Further, 5% of the Net QIB Portion shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to Mutual Funds only, subject to valid Bids being received at or above the Offer Price, and the remainder of the Net QIB Portion shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to all QIBs, including Mutual Funds, subject to valid Bids being received at or above the Offer Price. Further, not less than 15% of the Offer shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to Non-Institutional Bidders (“Non-Institutional Portion”), in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations, of which one-third of the Non-Institutional Portion shall be available for allocation to Bidders with an application size of more than ₹ 200,000 and up to ₹ 1,000,000 and two-thirds of the Non-Institutional Portion shall be available for allocation to Bidders with an application size of more than ₹ 1,000,000 and under- subscription in either of these two sub-categories of the Non-Institutional Portion may be allocated to Bidders in the other sub-category of the Non-Institutional Portion in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations, subject to valid Bids being received at or above the Offer Price. Further, not less than 35% of the Offer shall be available for allocation to Retail Individual Portion (“Retail Portion”), in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations, subject to valid Bids being received from them at or above the Offer Price. All Bidders (except Anchor Investors) shall mandatorily participate in the Offer only through the Application Supported by Blocked Amount (“ASBA”) process and shall provide details of their respective bank account including UPI ID (defined hereinafter) in case of UPI Bidders (defined hereinafter) in which the Bid Amount will be blocked by the Self Certified Syndicate Banks (“SCSBs”) or pursuant to the UPI Mechanism, as the case may be. Anchor Investors are not permitted to participate in the Anchor Investor Portion through the ASBA process.

The Equity Shares being offered pursuant to the Red Herring Prospectus are proposed to be listed on BSE and NSE. The Company has received in-principle approvals from BSE and NSE for listing of the Equity Shares pursuant to their letters each dated July 3, 2024.

 

Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors Limited, Nuvama Wealth Management Limited (formerly known as Edelweiss Securities Limited) and BOB Capital Markets Limited are the book running lead managers (“Book Running Lead Managers” or “BRLMs”) to the Offer.

Disclaimer:

P N GADGIL JEWELLERS LIMITED is proposing, subject to applicable statutory and regulatory requirements, receipt of requisite approvals, market conditions and other considerations, to undertake an initial public offering of its Equity Shares and has filed the RHP with Registrar of Companies, Maharashtra at Pune. The RHP is available on the website of the SEBI at www.sebi.gov.in, on the websites of the Stock Exchanges i.e., BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of India Limited at www.bseindia.com and www.nseindia.com, respectively, on the website of the Company at www.pngjewellers.com and the websites of the Book Running Lead Managers, i.e. Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors Limited, Nuvama Wealth Management Limited (formerly known as Edelweiss Securities Limited) and BOB Capital Markets Limited at www.motilaloswalgroup.com, www.nuvama.com and www.bobcaps.in, respectively. Any potential investors should note that investment in equity shares involves a high degree of risk and for details relating to such risk, please see the section entitled ‘‘Risk Factors’’ on page 29 of the RHP. Potential investors should not rely on the DRHP filed with SEBI for making any investment decision and instead rely on the RHP.

This announcement has been prepared for publication in India and may not be released in the United States. This announcement does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in any jurisdiction, including the United States, and any securities described in this announcement may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or an exemption from registration. Any public offering of securities to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from the Company and that will contain detailed information about the Company and management, as well as financial statements. There will be no public offering of the Equity Securities in the United States.