14, Feb 2025
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Future Generali Lifetime Partner Plan: A Gift of Protection for Life

Trust, commitment, and shared aspirations work in perfect synergy to achieve a strong partnership. It is imperative to go beyond traditional gifts and celebrate love with something truly meaningful a secure future. This valentine’s day, Future Generali India Life Insurance presents the FG Lifetime Partner Plan, a carefully designed savings-plus-life insurance solution that offers lifelong protection and a guaranteed increasing income (with the help of Cash bonuses, if declared) up to the age of 100.

Future Generali Lifetime Partner Plan is an Individual, Non-linked, Participating (with-profits), Savings, Life Insurance Plan that offers guaranteed payouts to support future financial needs while also providing the opportunity to earn bonuses and ensuring uninterrupted protection. Just like love, financial security should grow with time, and this plan ensures that your income keeps increasing, helping you meet evolving life goals, from your child’s education to a comfortable retirement. It is structured to help the partners plan for both regular expenses and long-term security, offering peace of mind that their family will remain financially stable even in their absence.

One of the key features of this plan is the Guaranteed Increasing Income, ensuring that the policyholder’s income grows over time to align with changing financial goals. The plan offers flexibility with two options: Immediate Income, which provides Guaranteed Income along with a Cash Bonus (if declared) starting from the first policy year with potential cash bonuses, and Deferred Income, where the guaranteed income begins three years after the premium payment term, providing higher payouts in the later years.

Furthermore, Future Generali Lifetime Partner Plan includes Whole-Life Coverage, offering financial security for up to 100 years. This guarantees that loved ones remain financially stable, regardless of what lies ahead. The plan includes Flexible Payout Options, enabling the policyholder to receive income at preferred frequency whether monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annually providing full control over their financial planning.

The plan is open to individuals between 1 to 55 years and 1 to 60 years (for Deferred Income). The maturity age is 100 years, with premium payment terms of 6, 8, 10, or 12 years. The minimum sum assured is ₹1,00,000, with no upper limit, subject to underwriting guidelines.

This Valentine’s Day, show your love in the most meaningful way by securing a future filled with financial confidence and stability for your loved ones. The Future Generali Lifetime Partner Plan is designed to provide increasing income, lifelong protection, and peace of mind, making it the perfect financial partner for your journey together. Because true love lasts a lifetime. So should your financial security.

14, Feb 2025
Godrej Yummiez 2024 Frozen Snack Report: 21% of Pune Celebrates Valentine’s Day with Frozen Snacks

National, 14th Feb 2025: Food has a unique power to connect people, and as the culinary owned media property of Godrej Industries Group, Vikhroli Cucina recognizes how much it plays a role in shaping unforgettable memories. As the saying goes, “The way to the heart is through the plate.” And with Godrej Foods holding a large share of the kitchen, from Godrej Yummiez to other convenient, high-quality food products, it was only natural to bring something extra special to the community during this season of love.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Vikhroli Cucina aimed to offer its audience a chance to experience the essence of love, connection, and convenience—all at once. While the brands in the Godrej ecosystem specializes in ready-to-cook products that make it easy for anyone to create gourmet meals, this time, the initiative went a step further. Through “The Perfect Pairing” campaign, Vikhroli Cucina sought to eliminate every possible step and provide loyalists with an experience that’s truly seamless—where they don’t have to worry about a thing, not even cooking, plating, or the ambiance.

Participants were invited to share their love story in the form of a dish pairing. One lucky couple was selected to receive a bespoke, chef-curated dining experience right in the comfort of their home. In partnership with Book My Chef, a renowned chef-for-hire service, the campaign ensures that every detail of the evening—everything from the ambiance to the meal—will be thoughtfully taken care of, featuring the Godrej Foods product range.

Food is undeniably at the heart of many cherished moments, especially during romantic occasions, but dining out on Valentine’s Day often comes with the stress of crowded restaurants, overbooked reservations, and the challenge of securing a place to dine. According to the STTEM 2.0 India’s Frozen Snacking Report by Godrej Yummiez, 1 in 5 Indians (20%) enjoy frozen snacks during romantic moments or dates. The trend is particularly strong among the 36-40 age group, with 27% choosing frozen snacks for such occasions. This highlights how convenient and indulgent food remains a popular choice across generations.

Speaking about the campaign, Anushree Dewen, Head of Marketing and Innovation at Godrej Foods Ltd, said, “At Godrej Foods, we believe that every meal should be an experience – one that turns ordinary moments into something truly special. With Godrej Yummiez, we bring the magic of restaurant-style dining straight to your home, making celebrations even more unforgettable. This Valentine’s Day, our “Perfect Pairing” campaign takes this vision a step further, offering a chef-curated experience designed to recreate the joy of fine dining right at your own table. Because great food isn’t just about taste – it’s about the moments you share.”

Pramod Jayavarapu, CEO of BookMyChef, added: “At BookMyChef, our mission is to transform ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences. We are excited to soon bring this special experience to life for Amisha Ranka & Mohnish Semlani, offering them not just a meal, but a moment of celebration and connection they will cherish forever. Working alongside Vikhroli Cucina, we are ensuring every detail is thoughtfully curated, and we look forward to creating an unforgettable Valentine’s Day for them.”

By blending love, food, and intimate experiences, ‘The Perfect Pairing’ campaign proved that the most cherished Valentine’s Day memories don’t always require a restaurant—sometimes, they are made right at home, with the perfect meal, the right company, and a touch of love.

14, Feb 2025
Leveraging William J. O’Neil’s Principles for Success in Today’s Stock Market

William J. O’Neil’s How to Make Money in Stocks has been a trusted guide for investors for decades. His CAN SLIM method provides a structured approach to identifying high-potential stocks. But how relevant is this strategy in today’s market?

 The CAN SLIM Strategy in Modern Investing
CAN SLIM is an acronym representing seven key factors O’Neil identified in top-performing stocks before their biggest gains. Each component represents a crucial factor in stock selection:
1. Current Quarterly Earnings (C)
O’Neil emphasized that stocks with strong earnings growth outperform the market. Earnings reports are more accessible than ever in our current digital age. Investors can track earnings surprises and revenue growth using platforms like Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance, and company investor relations websites.
2. Annual Earnings Growth (A)
Companies with consistent annual earnings growth attract investors. Look for firms with at least 20-25% earnings growth over the past few years. Tech firms, SaaS companies, and innovative healthcare stocks often exhibit strong earnings expansion.
3. New Products, New Management, or New Highs (N)
A stock’s price often surges when a company introduces groundbreaking products, undergoes leadership changes, or reaches new highs. Investors should watch for AI advancements, clean energy innovations, or disruptive technologies that can drive growth.
4. Supply and Demand (S)
Stocks with limited supply and increasing demand tend to rise in price. Monitor trading volume and institutional ownership; high demand from mutual funds and hedge funds often signals a strong stock.
5. Leader or Laggard (L)
O’Neil advised investing in industry leaders rather than laggards. Today, leaders in cloud computing, semiconductors, and fintech have shown strong momentum. Investors should compare relative strength ratings to find top-performing stocks.
6. Institutional Sponsorship (I)
Institutional investors (example: pension funds, hedge funds) play a crucial role in driving stock prices. Modern investors can track institutional holdings through 13F filings and platforms like Morningstar or MarketWatch.
7. Market Direction (M)
O’Neil stressed the importance of understanding market trends before investing. Today, investors can use technical indicators, macroeconomic data, and sentiment analysis tools to gauge market health.

 Adapting CAN SLIM to Today’s Market
While the core CAN SLIM principles remain relevant, investors must adapt to modern challenges:
● Rise of Retail Investing: With commission-free trading apps, retail investors influence market movements more than ever. Stocks can become overvalued quickly due to hype, requiring careful analysis.
● Algorithmic Trading: AI-driven trading strategies create rapid price fluctuations. Investors should be mindful of short-term volatility and focus on long-term trends.
● Global Events Impacting Markets: Geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and central bank policies significantly affect stocks. Investors should incorporate macroeconomic analysis into their research.

14, Feb 2025
Sprite’s ‘Thand Rakh’ Vibe: The Ultimate Summer Refreshment

India, 14 February 2024: Sprite, the iconic lemon & lime beverage, goes live with it’s legendary ‘Thand Rakh’ campaign with a fresh spin. The all-new films showcase Sharvari and Varun Tej making their debut, while the ever-chill Vedang Raina and Dev Adhikari return, bringing their effortless cool back to the summer. No matter what challenges life throws your way, Sprite’s crisp, fizzy magic serves as a simple reminder to sip, relax, and take it easy.

This campaign puts a unique spin on every day, high-temp situations that happen on the go, capturing the essence of how today’s youth tackle these challenges with wit, humor, and a refreshing bottle of Sprite. It perfectly embodies the spirit of staying cool and refreshed in a fast-paced world.

sprite

Sumeli Chatterjee, Senior Category Director, Sparkling Flavours, Coca-Cola India and South-West Asia, shared, “For decades, Sprite has been the go-to youth brand, known for its edgy and authentic communication. This summer, the iconic ‘Thand Rakh’ campaign brings to life how Sprite is a perfectly refreshing ally for teens, always on the go. Launching with a 360 approach – the campaign features all-new films with India’s most loved teen icons. We’re excited to bring this chill philosophy to life and provide the refreshment our young audiences crave.”

In line with this partnership, Sharvari added, “Sprite has always had its finger on the pulse of youth culture. The ‘Thand Rakh’ campaign is no different; it’s witty, fun, and reminds all of us to take it easy and go with the flow. It’s the perfect blend of humor and chill vibes, promising to be exactly what we need when life gives you lemons!”

Varun Tej Adds, “Sprite’s ‘Thand Rakh’ is the ultimate life hack—keep it cool, keep it fun, and let nothing faze you. I love how this campaign brings humor into everyday moments, making sure that no matter what, you always have a sip of chill to fall back on.”

Talking about his association, Vedang Raina said, “It’s always a pleasure to be associated with Sprite. ‘Thand Rakh’ is something that I personally relate to because finding your chill in life’s situations is the key to joy. This campaign is sure to match the vibe of audiences who are looking for that one moment of refreshment.”

Dev Adhikari shared, “The ‘Thand Rakh’ vibe is something we all need—whether you’re stuck in a situation or just dealing with everyday chaos. Working with Sprite on this campaign was the right kind of chill, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the fun we had bringing this to life.”

The 360-degree campaign will be amplified across television, and digital touchpoints, bringing Sprite’s zesty punch and playful vibe to the audiences, ensuring that whatever life brings—Thand Rakh, sip Sprite, and stay effortlessly cool!

Sukesh Nayak, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy, remarked ‘With this Sprite ‘Thand Rakh’ campaign we really wanted to bring back the Sprite persona in a way that was refreshing, while staying true to the cool, witty, effortless world of Sprite. We chose on-the-go and outdoor summer moments when things are at their most heated to show people how to keep their ‘thand’ and enjoy the Sprite side of life.’

14, Feb 2025
STMicroelectronics Recognized Among Global Top Employers for 2025

stm

STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, has been recognized for the first time as a global Top Employer for 2025 by Top Employers Institute.

This year STMicroelectronics was one of only 17 global Top Employers to be recognized by Top Employers Institute for their outstanding HR policies and practices worldwide, covering ST entities in 41 countries. The Top Employers Institute program certifies organizations based on the participation and results of their HR Best Practices Survey. STMicroelectronics was distinguished in this ranking thanks to a continuous improvement approach and stands out particularly in the themes of Ethics & Integrity, Purpose & Values, Organization & Change, Business Strategy, and Performance.

“A couple of years ago, we began a people-centric transformation to enhance our leadership culture, simplify and digitalize people processes, with the employee journey and experience as our north star. Achieving the Top Employer Global certification confirms that our efforts are well-directed, and that ST is a place where every talent can thrive, regardless of their career stage or perspective,” said Rajita D’Souza, President, Human Resources & Corporate Social Responsibility, STMicroelectronics.

“We’re excited that STMicroelectronics certified as a global Top Employer for the first time. They have particularly showcased their strengths in areas such as Organisation & Change, Ethics & Integrity, Purpose & Values and Business Strategy. This Certification shows ST’s commitment to creating a better world of work through their HR initiatives and practices, by demonstrating how they support their colleagues across 41 countries,” said David Plink, CEO Top Employers Institute.

The Top Employers Institute survey, followed by validation and audit, covers six HR domains consisting of 20 topics including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and more. The program has certified and recognized over 2,400 Top Employers in 125 countries/regions across five continents.

14, Feb 2025
Veer Pahariya Talks Bollywood Debut and Breaking Barriers on Grazia India’s February Cover

Grazia India’s February issue turns the spotlight on Veer Pahariya, who made his big Bollywood debut alongside Akshay Kumar in the action-drama Sky Force. It may be Veer’s first film, but his journey as a performer began at the age of five when he fell in love with dance and the stage. In this exclusive cover feature, Veer reflects on his path so far, sharing how, as a first-generation artist in his family, the absence of an industry legacy only fueled his determination to forge his own identity. Known for celebrating individuality and ambition, Grazia India provides the perfect platform for his story, one of passion, resilience and breaking boundaries.

For his role as a Squadron Leader in Sky Force, Veer underwent a transformative process to embody the mindset of a fighter pilot. Recalling the process, he shares, “I needed a lot of emotional training to get into the psyche of a fighter pilot. I did a lot of workshops and spent a lot of time in solitude to get to know myself better.”

Talking about staying true to himself, he says, “I really don’t care what anyone thinks. I’m here to have a voice, and in an occupation where everyone is trying to shoot you down for being different, I want to maintain that throughout my career.”

Opening up about his deep fascination for biopics, Veer shares, “I really enjoy biopics because I get to dive into the character I’m playing. It also scares me to get into the shoes of people who are recognised and followed – that is something that excites me.”

But his journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Having faced media scrutiny from an early age, Veer remains unfazed by the noise. He says, “I’ve seen a lot of ups and downs in my family and personal life. I’ve had bad things written about me in the press since I was very young. The good, the bad – nothing affects me. I want to work and make a name for myself. So, I cut the noise and focus on myself.”

With an insatiable hunger for new experiences, Veer constantly seeks opportunities to reach his limits and wants to embrace roles that demand emotional and physical extremes. He remarks, “I like experiencing different things and pulling myself to extremes; so, I quite enjoyed living the life of a fighter pilot.”

14, Feb 2025
The Spectrum of Epilepsy: Diagnosis to Advanced Therapeutic Solutions

Ramya Bandi, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist,Ankura Hospital for Women and Children

By- Dr. Ramya Bandi, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by/or tendency to have recurrent seizures, which result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can manifest in various forms, affecting awareness, muscle control, sensations, emotions, and behavior.

Approximately 12 million people in India, about 1% of the population, live with epilepsy, with higher prevalence in rural areas. Globally, epilepsy affects around 50 million individuals, contributing significantly to the global disease burden. Importantly, for up to 60% of individuals, the cause of epilepsy remains unknown, and around 30% of people with epilepsy do not respond well to medication treatments. People with epilepsy are 15-19 times more likely to drown than the rest of the population. One third of every 73 people with epilepsy experience depression and anxiety, the most common comorbidity of the disease.

Seizure is a symptom whereas epilepsy is a disorder. Seizure symptoms vary depending on the type and can include temporary confusion, staring spells, muscle stiffness, uncontrollable jerking movements, loss of consciousness, and psychological symptoms like fear or déjà vu. Some individuals may experience behavioral changes or symptoms of psychosis.

The causes of epilepsy are diverse and include structural brain damage from birth complications, genetic conditions, severe head injuries, strokes, brain infections, genetic syndromes, and brain tumors. However, the cause remains unknown in about 50% of cases globally. Thanks to advances in genetics, we are able to diagnose persons with no diagnosis earlier. Epilepsy can significantly impact the lives of those affected, and for women and children, the challenges may be compounded due to unique health considerations. Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, known for its comprehensive care approach, plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of epilepsy in this demographic.

Women with epilepsy face specific concerns, particularly during pregnancy. Seizures and the use of anti-seizure medications can impact fetal development and maternal health. Ankura Hospital offers specialized care to women with epilepsy who are planning pregnancies or are already pregnant, providing a multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal health outcomes for both the mother and child. The hospital’s expert team of neurologists and gynecologists work together to manage medications, address seizure triggers, and monitor the pregnancy closely.

Ankura Hospital also focuses on early detection and intervention for children with epilepsy. The hospital provides personalized care, considering each child’s unique needs, which includes not only medical treatments but also emotional and psychological support. Given the high co-occurrence of depression and anxiety with epilepsy, Ankura ensures that mental health is a key part of the treatment process, offering counseling and support services for both children and their families.

Seizure triggers are events or circumstances that can precipitate seizures, such as stress, sleep disturbances, undue travel, alcohol use, hormonal changes, illness, flashing lights, and certain medications.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly blood work to rule out other conditions. Treatment options include anti-seizure medications, dietary therapies like the ketogenic diet, and in severe cases, surgery or implantation of medical devices to modulate brain activity.

Anti-seizure medications are effective in controlling seizures for 60-70% of people with epilepsy. The choice of medication depends on seizure type, medical history, potential interactions, side effects, age, health, and cost. For individuals who do not respond to medications, alternative treatments such as dietary therapies or surgery may be recommended.

Epilepsy management requires a personalized approach tailored to each individual’s specific symptoms, medical history, and response to treatment. Ongoing research and advancements in medical science continue to improve understanding and treatment outcomes for people living with epilepsy.

14, Feb 2025
Bonjour Launches ‘Week of Love 7 Days, 7 Moments’ Campaign to Celebrate Valentine’s Day FeelTheLoveWithBonjour

National, 14th February 2025 – Bonjour Socks, India’s leading socks brand, is set to spread warmth and affection this Valentine’s Day with its latest campaign, ‘Bonjour’s Week of Love: 7 Days, 7 Moments.’ The campaign, launching across digital and social media platforms, celebrates the joy of love through everyday moments, beautifully woven together with the comfort of Bonjour’s signature socks.

At the heart of the campaign is a 15-second video capturing an intimate and cozy indoor moment between a couple, showcasing the warmth of love and companionship. The highlight of the video is the couple’s matching Valentine’s socks, seamlessly integrating Bonjour’s premium product into their tender interaction. Through this campaign, Bonjour aims to illustrate how small gestures like gifting a pair of comfortable, stylish socks—can enhance moments of connection and togetherness.

Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Rajkumar Jain, Managing Director of Bonjour Socks, said, “Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love in its simplest yet most meaningful ways. With ‘Week of Love: 7 Days, 7 Moments,’ we wanted to showcase how even the smallest details, like a cozy pair of socks, can bring two people closer. Bonjour’s products are designed to deliver comfort, warmth, and style making them a perfect gift for this special occasion.”

The campaign will roll out in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day, featuring engaging content that highlights love in all its forms—whether it’s a shared cup of coffee, a lazy Sunday morning, or a spontaneous dance in the living room. Bonjour invites everyone to join the celebration by sharing their special moments using #FeelTheLoveWithBonjour on social media.

14, Feb 2025
Muthoottu Mini Kicks Off Lucky Draw Contest to Reward Gold Loan Customers

Kochi, 14 February 2025: Muthoottu Mini Financiers Ltd. (Muthoottu Yellow) has announced a Lucky Draw Contest for customers availing gold loans, offering them a chance to win smartwatches, home appliances, and other exciting prizes. The contest, open until March 31, 2025, aims to strengthen customer relationships and make credit more accessible to those in need of quick financial support.

With a focus on small business owners, daily wage earners, and entrepreneurs, Muthoottu Mini is offering small-ticket gold loans at low interest rates to help customers manage their financial needs without strain. The initiative is expected to generate over ₹150 crore in business, reinforcing the company’s commitment to financial inclusion.

“Gold loans have long been a trusted financial tool, and through this initiative, we aim to make borrowing even more rewarding for our customers,” said Shri P.E. Mathai, CEO, Muthoottu Mini Financiers Ltd. “Beyond just providing credit, we want to offer convenience, flexibility, and a seamless borrowing experience that truly benefits our customers.”

In addition to the Lucky Draw Contest, Muthoottu Mini offers customers a range of hassle-free digital loan services, including:

· Instant loan disbursal directly into the customer’s bank account.

· Online renewal and repayment options for seamless loan management.

· Relax Gold Loan – No change in the interest rates for the entire tenure.

· Super EMI Loan – A flexible repayment plan that allows customers to pay back their gold loan in instalments.

14, Feb 2025
VOC Automotive Pioneers Excellence in Safety and Trust for Pre-Owned Two-Wheelers

India – 14th Feb: VOC Automotive is proud to introduce its groundbreaking 2nd-Hand Vehicle Health Check-Up Certification, designed to transform how buyers approach purchasing second-hand two-wheelers. With this innovative service, buyers can now confidently purchase a vehicle from anywhere – whether it’s an online platform, a local dealership, or a private seller – and rely on VOC Automotive to ensure their ride is safe, reliable, and worth every penny. Buy Anywhere , Certify with VOC for Quality Assurance

A Vehicle Health Certification is a comprehensive evaluation of a two-wheeler’s overall condition, including safety, reliability, and performance. With VOC Automotive, this process involves a detailed 18 Points check up of critical components such as the engine, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, tires, and more. The certification process ensures complete transparency, providing a thorough report that documents the vehicle’s current condition and highlights any necessary repairs or maintenance. Once a vehicle passes VOC’s stringent quality checks, it is backed by a certification guarantee that meets safety and performance standards, along with a 6,12 and 24 Months of warranty , Adding to that AMC ( Annual Maintenance Contact ) and RSA ( Roadside Assistance) – Certified & Warranted by VOC.

“We understand the challenges and uncertainties of buying a pre-owned two-wheeler,” says Venkatesh BM, CEO of VOC Automotive. “Our certification service ensures that every buyer can ride with confidence, knowing their vehicle has undergone rigorous inspections and meets the highest safety and performance standards.” This assurance of reliability eliminates the uncertainty of purchasing a second-hand vehicle, as all certified vehicles are roadworthy and dependable. Buyers can bring their vehicles to VOC Automotive for certification, regardless of whether the purchase was made online, at a dealership, or through a private seller. Additionally, 6,12 and 24 Months of warranty , Adding to that AMC ( Annual Maintenance Contact ) and RSA ( RoadSide Assistance ).

VOC Automotive’s certification process is designed to evaluate every critical aspect of the two-wheeler. The inspection includes checks on engine health to ensure smooth operation, optimal oil levels, and cooling efficiency. Electrical systems are thoroughly tested for battery condition, wiring, and functionality of headlights, indicators, and the horn. Brakes and suspension are examined for wear and tear, fluid leaks, and stability. Tires and wheels are inspected for tread depth, alignment, and overall condition, while the chassis and frame are assessed for structural integrity, rust, and damage. The exhaust system is tested for compliance with legal emission standards, and aesthetic and functional components such as mirrors, seats, and body panels are evaluated for usability and wear.

“With VOC Automotive’s health certification, we’re not just building trust; we’re redefining the standards for second-hand two-wheeler transactions,” adds Lokesh S, Director of VOC Automotive. “Our mission is to provide a seamless and transparent experience for every customer.” This service benefits buyers by offering safety assurance, detailed inspection reports, and warranty protection, while sellers gain increased credibility, higher resale values, and quicker sales through certification.

The process to get a vehicle certified is simple. Buyers can purchase their two-wheelers from any platform, bring them to the nearest VOC Automotive outlet, and have the vehicle undergo a comprehensive inspection by expert technicians. Post-inspection, the buyer receives VOC’s certification along with a 6-month extended warranty. This warranty provides coverage for critical components such as the engine, brakes, transmission, and electrical systems, giving buyers added confidence and protection against unforeseen repair costs.

VOC commitment to excellence is backed by expert technicians with years of experience and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, ensuring precise evaluations. The company’s customer-centric approach focuses on delivering convenience, quality and transparency with a nationwide network of outlets for easy access and convenience.