2, Jun 2025
HCG Cancer Centre Brings Zombies to Nagpur Streets in Striking Anti-Tobacco Campaign
Nagpur, June 2nd , 2025 — In a unique public awareness campaign, organized on account of ‘World No Tobacco Day’ at HCG Cancer Centre, Nagpur, brought the city to a standstill with an unprecedented on-ground initiative, that featured volunteers and HCG non-medical staff dressed as zombies. These differently dressed ones attracted the attention of passers-by in Nagpur’ Civil Lines, Samvidhan Chowk and many crowded areas. This unusual campaign aimed at delivering an impactful visual message about the harmful and life-draining effects
of tobacco use.
On “World No Tobacco Day”, a group of six enthusiastic NSS volunteers and two HCG non- medical staff, took to the streets of Nagpur, visiting traffic signals and high-footfall areas. Dressed as zombies, they held attractive placards, bearing anti-tobacco slogans, such as “ I died young, thanks tobacco”,”One puff at a time… I lost my life” “I’m gone. But you can still quit” and interacted with the passers-by to raise awareness about the long-term damage caused by tobacco consumption.
The HCG Hospital initiated campaign was designed to symbolically represent how tobacco causes health to degenerate, turning vibrant lives into ghostly shadows. The effort successfully drew the attention of motorists, pedestrians, and commuters, many of whom stopped to engage and learn more about the cause.
Alongside the street activity, HCG Cancer Centre, Nagpur, also conducted awareness drive
within the hospital premises. These sessions focused on educating patients, caregivers, and
visitors about the dangers of tobacco use, early signs of related diseases and the importance
of preventive screening.
Dr. Bhaskar Singh, Consultant Surgical Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre Nagpur, said, “Tobacco drains the body from within, often without revealing obvious signs of a progressive condition. Through the HCG zombie campaign, our intention was to create lasting impact on people’s mind. Awareness is the first step towards prevention and our objective was to spark that awareness across the city.”
Ms. Neeta Rajwar, COO, HCG Cancer Centre Nagpur, added, “The HCG campaign reflects our ongoing commitment to community health. At HCG Cancer Centre, we believe that cancer care begins with education. If we can motivate even a few people to quit tobacco or go for early screening, we would consider it as a successful campaign. We continue to prioritize public health initiatives that goes beyond hospital walls, using creative outreach to address critical health issues.”
This World No Tobacco Day, the message was loud, clear, and impossible to ignore—tobacco steals life, but awareness can help prevent that.
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- By Neel Achary
2, Jun 2025
India’s heart once again beats to the iconic ‘Namak ho Tata Ka…Tata Namak’ jingle
Chandigarh, 2nd June 2025- Inspired by the overwhelming consumer love for its ‘Namak ho Tata ka… Tata Namak’ campaign last year, India’s No.1 iodized salt brand, Tata Salt, returns with a fresh new edition of ‘Namak Ho Tata Ka… Tata Namak’. This 2.0 version builds on the deep emotional connect forged with households across the country, reimagining the iconic jingle to spark renewed love, connection, and purpose.
The new campaign features eight heartwarming and playful brand films, that elevate the nostalgic melody while delivering a powerful message: Tata Salt, with the right amount of iodine, supports children’s mental development, building a sharper generation for future. Reinforcing its position as Desh Ka Namak, the campaign celebrates Tata Salt’s unmatched product trust and functionality in an entertaining, engaging, and musical format.
Conceptualized by Ogilvy, the multi-asset campaign captures slice-of-life moments, from lullabies and classrooms to kitty parties, weddings, and everyday family scenes, portraying Tata Salt as an inseparable part of Indian homes.
The films reflect everyday life across Hindi heartland families, expressive Bengali homes, and emotionally rich Marathi households. The storytelling also resonates across generations, celebrating real, authentic moments.
In one film, a teacher uses a nostalgic jingle to teach the importance of iodine in a familiar school setting, blending education with emotion. Another showcases a lively Hindi-speaking household, where Tata Salt quietly supports every culinary tradition and loving exchange. With its nostalgic yet catchy tune, the campaign proudly reaffirms Tata Salt as Desh Ka Namak, reaching millions with its rhythm and timeless message with the initial release of four films during IPL.
Commenting on the campaign, Ms. Deepika Bhan, President – Packaged Foods, Tata Consumer Products Ltd., said, ” This is a beautiful, natural follow-up to our last year’s campaign, presenting the iconic jingle again in a refreshing way. ‘Desh ka Namak’ is more than just an emotion, it’s a promise built on quality, integrity, and generations of trust built over four decades. This campaign will deepen our bond with consumers and reaffirm our commitment to happiness, and trust in every home.
Anurag Agnihotri, Chief Creative Officer – Mumbai & Kolkata, Ogilvy, added, “Tata Salt wanted to tell people about building sharper minds through iodine addition. But how do you make something as vital as child’s mental development impossible to ignore? So, we turned to the 80’s, an era that made everything unforgettable through a jingle. We took our iodine story, dressed it in 80s flair, and sent it through every corner of Indian life, from vidaais, to classrooms to kitty parties. This is our love letter to a golden era of advertising, reimagined for today’s India.”
2, Jun 2025
Udaan Closes Series G with Dollar114M Raise Led by M&G and Lightspeed
National, June 2, 2025: udaan, India’s leading eB2B platform, today announced the successful closure of its Series G financing round raising USD 114 Million in fresh equity capital. The round was led by M&G Investments and Lightspeed with participation from other existing and new investors, reflecting strong investor conviction in udaan’s long-term opportunity and its progress towards public market listing.
The fresh capital will be deployed to strengthen udaan’s category and customer footprint, with focus on Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) category and Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering (HoReCa) customer segment. udaan will also accelerate its private label brands initiatives in the staples category. This capital raise will also fortify udaan’s balance sheet, providing enhanced financial flexibility as the company advances toward its public market debut.
As part of its long-term vision, udaan is focused on driving “consistent growth with profitability at scale” by following regional cluster-led operating model reinforcing its commitment to building a sustainable and scalable business.
Backed by solid business fundamentals, udaan continues to demonstrate strong contribution margin accretive growth, clocking 60%+ Year-on-Year (Y-o-Y) growth in CY 2024, alongside a 300+ basis point improvement in contribution margin. This growth trajectory has continued into CY 2025 with an additional 100+ bps contribution margin improvement year-to-date. Alongside the contribution margin growth and scale operating leverage, udaan also reduced its fixed costs by 20%, leading to a 40% reduction in EBITDA burn in calendar year CY 2024 and an additional 20% reduction year-to-date in CY 2025.
Vaibhav Gupta, Co-founder and CEO, udaan, said, “Over the last 3 years, we have transformed the business by building cost as a capability and a competitive advantage. We have reduced our EBITDA burn by 40% every year for the last 3 years and are on track to achieve full group EBITDA profitability in the next 18 months.
udaan’s hybrid model of ‘highly available eCom app + new-gen tech-first sales’ is now established as the benchmark winning model for eB2B, providing an ROI accretive customer wallet growth, and a strong solution for brands and manufacturers to drive product mix.”
Completion of series G round enables us to continue investing in our customer-tech platform, sales-tech capabilities and deepening our customer value proposition helping us deliver our goal of consistent growth with profitability at scale.”
2, Jun 2025
Errol Musk Visits India to Boost Servotech’s Green Tech Mission
NEW DELHI, INDIA – June 2, 2025 – Mr. Errol Musk, Global Advisor to Servotech Renewable Power System Ltd. And renowned global entrepreneur, has arrived in India today for a pivotal visit focused on accelerating the nation’s green technology and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure development. His six-day itinerary is packed with Servotech’s Manufacturing Plant visit, Ram Mandir visit, high-level engagements, including a key industry forum, and meetings with government officials.
Mr. Musk’s visit underscores the burgeoning global interest in India’s rapid strides towards sustainable development and its ambition to be a leader in green technology exports.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Mr. Errol Musk to India,” said Mr. Raman Bhatia, Managing Director, Servotech Renewable Power System Ltd. “His profound expertise and global vision as our Global Advisor are invaluable as we drive India’s mission to become a powerhouse in green technology and EV charging exports. This visit signifies a major step towards ‘Keeping Bharat Ahead’ on the global stage.”
During his stay, Mr. Musk will engage with a diverse set of stakeholders:
• June 2, 2025: Mr. Musk will deliver a keynote address at the India–Global Green Tech Vision Forum 2025 at the Taj Palace, New Delhi. This event will bring together policymakers, investors, business leaders, and senior bureaucrats to discuss India’s strategic push for leadership in green technologies.
• June 3, 2025: He will undertake an exclusive visit to Servotech Renewable’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Sonipat, Haryana, to witness firsthand the innovative production of EV chargers, solar solutions, and other sustainable technologies, showcasing the ‘Make in India’ excellence.
• June 4, 2025: Mr. Musk, accompanied by Servotech’s leadership, is scheduled to seek blessings at the sacred Shri Ram Lalla temple in Ayodhya.
“It is an immense privilege to be in India and witness its vibrant progress in green technology and sustainable development,” stated Mr. Errol Musk. “India’s commitment to a cleaner future and its burgeoning EV ecosystem present incredible opportunities. I am eager to contribute to Servotech’s vision and explore the potential for India to lead the global green revolution.”
2, Jun 2025
Logic School of Management Launches CIAP Program in Collaboration with IAB, UK
KOCHI, 2ND JUNE 2025: Logic School of Management, part of the Veranda Commerce vertical led by Prof. J.K. Shah, has announced the launch of the Certified International Accounting Professional (CIAP) program in partnership with the Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers (IAB), UK — a globally respected body for professional accounting qualifications. Logic has trained thousands of aspirants across India for the last 2 decades and has a strong track record in International and national accounting programs like ACCA, CMA USA, CPA USA and CA education.
Veranda Commerce is one of the largest commerce education verticals in India and is actively expanding its footprint. Brands under this vertical include JK Shah Classes, BB Virtuals, Navkar Digital Institute, Tapasya College of Commerce and Management, and Logic School of Management.
The CIAP program features a fast-tracked, globally aligned curriculum that can be completed in just six months. It is tailored for both students and working professionals aiming to build successful careers in international accounting and finance. The program offers placement assistance through IAB, certification from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), and access to bank loan facilities — making it a practical, affordable, career-focused, and accessible pathway to rewarding careers in global finance and accounting. The first batch of the CIAP program is expected to commence by the end of June.
The launch event was inaugurated by Ms. Sarah Palmer, CEO of IAB, who highlighted the growing global demand for skilled finance professionals. “We are delighted to collaborate with Logic School of Management to introduce the CIAP qualification in India,” said Ms. Palmer. “This program is not just a certification—it’s a passport to career opportunities, designed to equip learners with the real-world skills required by employers in the financial industry.”
Established in 1973, IAB is one of the most trusted awarding bodies in the UK, with a focus on raising professional standards in bookkeeping, accounting, and payroll globally.
Other dignitaries present included Mr. Ranjit Srivenkatesh, Director, IAB; Ms. Michelle Griffiths, Deputy Chief Examiner, IAB; Ms. Fathayya Khan, Manager, NSDC Academy; Mr. Nikhil, representing NSDC; and Ms. Rosmin, IAB Coordinator.
Mr. Santhoshkumar, Director of Logic School of Management, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “We are pleased to bring this globally recognized qualification to our students in India. Our vision is to empower future-ready professionals through international certifications that unlock career opportunities across India.” This initiative reinforces Logic School of Management’s commitment to delivering high-quality, internationally benchmarked education in accounting and finance.
2, Jun 2025
Shree Cement and RITES inks partnership to enhance Rail Infrastructure for seamless logistics
Shree Cement Limited (SCL), one of India’s leading cement producers, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RITES Limited, a Navratna enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India to strengthen its rail infrastructure network. This strategic collaboration will facilitate the development of rail infrastructure and allied services across Shree Cement’s manufacturing units enabling more efficient and sustainable transportation of raw materials and finished goods.
The agreement is effective for a period of five years from the date of signing and can be extended further with mutual consent.
Speaking on the occasion Mr Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement said, “As we expand our manufacturing footprint across India, strengthening our logistics and supply chain infrastructure becomes increasingly critical. Our collaboration with RITES is a strategic step towards creating a more efficient, cost-effective and sustainable transportation system that supports our growth while reducing environmental impact.”
Under the terms of the MoU, RITES will cover the services from concept to commissioning in connection with the up-gradation, renovation and establishment of new rail connectivity for the transportation of raw materials, cement, and other associated materials. Further, RITES will act as the Project Management Consultant (PMC), providing end-to-end consultancy services that span the entire lifecycle of infrastructure projects from reconnaissance and feasibility studies to detailed project reports and execution management.
As part of its role, RITES will also assist in securing all necessary approvals from the Ministry of Railways and other relevant authorities for civil, signal and telecom, overhead electrification and mechanical engineering components. Additionally, RITES will support Shree Cement in contractor selection by evaluating and certifying the eligibility of executing agencies during the tendering process.
Dr. Deepak Tripathi, Director (Technical) & Director (Projects, Addl Charge), RITES Ltd., said, “We are pleased to partner with Shree Cement in the infrastructure development journey. With our proven expertise in rail and transport engineering, we are confident of delivering integrated and future-ready solutions that align with our mutual business goals.”
This partnership marks a significant step in Shree Cement’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainable logistics. By leveraging RITES technical capabilities and domain expertise, the company aims to build a robust rail infrastructure that supports its long-term business growth and aligns with national priorities for greener industrial operations.
2, Jun 2025
IDEMITSU Honda Racing India Riders Push Limits with a Tough Fight in Round 2 of 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship
Mumbai / Sepang International Circuit (Malaysia), June 2, 2025: The IDEMITSU Honda Racing India riders faced a challenging and intense Round 2 of the 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at the iconic Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, closing out a weekend full of high-speed action and fierce competition.
The Indian duo, Kavin Quintal and Johann Reeves, completed today’s race with grit and consistency in the fiercely competitive Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.
Kavin Quintal, the 19-year-old rider started the 8-lap race from the 19th grid position for race 1. He finished at 18th position with a total time of 19:43:239. In Race 2, Kavin mounted a strong comeback and, despite fierce competition, demonstrated resilience and tactical racing skills to hold his ground. He completed the race at 15th position after a tough battle, crossing the finish line with a total time of 19:44.506 and setting his fastest lap at 2:25.412.
Meanwhile, Johann Reeves started from 24th on the grid in Round 2 of ARRC. In Race 1, Johann delivered a strong performance, maintaining steady lap times and gaining valuable experience on the challenging circuit. He crossed the finish line in 19th place with a total time of 19:44.679. In Race 2, Reeves defended his position well, completing the race at 20th place with a total time of 20:07.715 and recording his fastest lap at 2:29.021.
Kavin earned 1 point in round 2 at Malaysia, bringing their cumulative team total to 5 points for this season in the Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.
Sharing his thoughts, Kavin Quintal said “Today’s race at Sepang Circuit was challenging from start to finish. The technical track demanded complete focus and tested every move. It was a tough battle out there. I am taking away important lessons and remain determined to come back stronger in the upcoming races.”
Johann Reeves added, “Today’s race at Sepang Circuit pushed me on every level. The competition was intense and the track demanding. I have gained valuable experience for the team. There’s a lot to build on. With the completion of Round 2, I am focused on coming back stronger in the upcoming races.”
2, Jun 2025
Kotak Life and Royal Challengers Bengaluru Join Hands to Launch HauslaBadhao
Mumbai, June 02, 2025: Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd. (Kotak Life), the official insurance partner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has launched #HauslaBadhao—an initiative aimed at raising awareness about the growing risk of critical illnesses and the importance of financial preparedness to overcome them.
This initiative stems from a powerful truth—when critical illness strikes, it impacts an individual’s financial stability and shakes the hausla (courage) of the entire family. In such situations, families are often forced to dip into savings, take loans, pause long-term goals and make difficult sacrifices.
Kotak Life’s Critical Illness Rider provides crucial financial support during these challenging times, helping families maintain their hausla when they need it most.
In India, the prevalence of critical illness and medical costs is on the rise:
· One in nine Indians are likely to develop cancer in their lifetime2
· 1 in 4 deaths in India is caused by cardiovascular disease3
· Healthcare costs in India are rising by 14% annually, with 62% paid out-of-pocket and 23% covered through borrowings4
#HauslaBadhao is rooted in the belief that while health challenges are often unavoidable, financial preparedness empowers families with the courage to fight back. Through this initiative, Kotak Life and RCB empower Indians with protection through Kotak Life’s Critical Illness Rider1, delivering crucial financial support during medical emergencies.
Ashish Nair, CMO and Head – Customer Value Management and Health Tech, Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance, said: “Every dream begins with hope. But not every journey goes as planned. Just like in cricket, an unexpected delivery can change the game of life. #HauslaBadhao represents our commitment to equipping Indians with financial tools to face any of life’s uncertainties that come their way. Kotak Life offers a Critical Illness Rider with most of its policies at an affordable cost, providing added protection when one needs it the most”.
Rajesh V Menon, COO, RCB, said: Our partnership with Kotak Life is driven by a shared belief—that preparedness builds resilience. We are proud to support an initiative that encourages Indians to take control of their future by being financially prepared to fight critical illnesses.”
2, Jun 2025
Air India Expands Codeshare with Air Mauritius to Enhance Southern Africa Connectivity
GURUGRAM, 02 June 2025: Air India, India’s leading global airline, and Air Mauritius, the national carrier of Mauritius, have expanded their existing codeshare partnership to offer travelers improved connectivity across the Indian Subcontinent and the African region.
The two airlines signed the expanded codeshare agreement on the sidelines of the 81st IATA AGM in New Delhi, in the presence of Campbell Wilson, CEO & Managing Director, Air India, and Kishore Beegoo, Chairman, Air Mauritius.
As part of the strengthened bilateral codeshare agreement, Air India and Air Mauritius will place their designator codes on a total of 17 routes between India, Mauritius, Réunion, South Africa, and Madagascar.
With the enhanced codeshare partnership, Air India will place its ‘AI’ designator code on Air Mauritius flights to and from Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa, and Antananarivo in Madagascar, for Air India guests to seamlessly travel to these cities via Mauritius on a single ticket and baggage checked through to their final destination. Air India already codeshares on Air Mauritius flights between Mauritius and Mumbai, Delhi, and Réunion.
Air Mauritius currently places its ‘MK’ designator code on Air India flights between Mumbai and Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Goa, Delhi and Bengaluru, Chennai. As part of the enhanced codeshare, Air Mauritius will place its ‘MK’ designator code on Air India flights between Mauritius and Mumbai.
Thus, all flights operated by Air India and Air Mauritius between the two countries will have each other’s designator codes, thereby multiplying flight options for customers of either carrier.
Campbell Wilson, CEO & Managing Director, Air India, said: “India is one of the largest tourism source markets for destinations in Southern Africa, including Mauritius and South Africa, as well as a strong trade partner to the region. This expanded codeshare partnership with Air Mauritius is another step toward widening our extended global network, which enables our customers to easily access these destinations.
“Air Mauritius is pleased to expand its collaboration with Air India, offering our passengers connections to numerous destinations across India via Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai. Travellers from India to Mauritius will not only experience the warmth of our multi-cultural society and the richness of our diverse local cuisine, but also enjoy the convenience of connecting to Reunion, South Africa, and Madagascar beyond with Air Mauritius,” says Kishore Beegoo, Chairman of Air Mauritius.
The additional codeshare flights are available for booking from 01 July 2025 through Air India’s and Air Mauritius’ respective booking channels and through travel agents.
2, Jun 2025
Playboy Clubs India Embarks on Strategic Expansion to Redefine Luxury Nightlife Across Major Indian Cities
India, 2nd June 2025: Playboy Clubs India is proud to announce its ambitious expansion plans with a ₹250 crore investment aimed at transforming India’s premium nightlife landscape. With a strong commitment to delivering immersive, tech-driven, and luxurious entertainment experiences, the brand will soon make its presence felt in key cities including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Goa.
Building on the brand’s globally recognized legacy, Playboy Clubs in India have emerged as cultural epicenters where bespoke experiences, high-energy nightlife, and elite social environments converge. The expansion will see the introduction of new formats including VIP-exclusive lounges, themed Bunny Bars, and AI-integrated party spaces all tailored to meet the rising demand of a younger, more discerning urban audience.
“India’s nightlife has matured significantly over the past few years. Guests are no longer content with just drinks and music—they seek curated, memorable moments,” shares Rohit Malhotra, Owner of Playboy Clubs India. “This expansion is not about adding more clubs—it’s about elevating the standard and making every venue a destination in itself.”
As part of its expansion strategy, Playboy Clubs will deepen its focus on technology-led hospitality. This includes AI-powered bartenders that craft mood-based cocktails, VIP concierge systems, and AR-enhanced environments that turn each night into a sensory adventure.
The brand is also committed to sustainable luxury, integrating eco-friendly practices such as zero-waste cocktail programs, locally sourced ingredients, and exploring carbon-neutral design options across its new venues.
With India’s nightlife rapidly moving toward exclusive, themed, and wellness-integrated spaces, Playboy Clubs aim to be more than nightclubs—they’re lifestyle destinations. Each new venue will reflect a distinct narrative, from relaxed outdoor beer gardens to luxe rooftop lounges, ensuring that every guest finds an experience that resonates.
“The future of nightlife in India is about quality, personalization, and global sophistication,” adds Malhotra. “We’re not just expanding real estate—we’re creating a nationwide network of iconic destinations that set the benchmark for high-end entertainment.”
As India positions itself on the global map for luxury nightlife, Playboy Clubs India is set to lead this renaissance, where bold design, cutting-edge innovation, and refined indulgence converge.
