2, Aug 2024
Friendship Day Feast: Stories That Will Make You Cherish Your Crew
Friendship Day is here, a time to shower our incredible friends with love and celebrate the bonds that enrich our lives. Sure, there’s nothing quite like spending quality time with your real-life besties, sharing stories, and reminiscing about good times. But what about those moments when you crave a heartwarming story about friendship that explores the complexities of this precious connection? Well, fret not, for this list has you covered!
Here’s a selection of fantastic series and movies featuring unforgettable friendships that will resonate with you long after the credits roll (or the episode ends).
Kota Factory (Netflix): Dive into the pressure cooker world of IIT hopefuls with “Kota Factory” on Netflix. This black-and-white dramedy follows Vaibhav, a young student from Itarsi who arrives in Kota, Rajasthan, a city notorious for its intense coaching institutes. As Vaibhav navigates the competitive environment, friendships, and late-night study sessions, “Kota Factory” offers a realistic and often humorous portrayal of the lives of students striving to crack India’s prestigious entrance exams.
Brahmayantra (Pocket FM): Brace yourself for an epic fantasy adventure! When Nalini and her family tragically succumb to death while protecting the Brahmayantra (a powerful artifact) fate takes an unexpected turn. Through a miraculous twist, a great warrior is born from the awakened powers of the Brahmayantra. But that’s not all! Nalini herself receives a new body, allowing her to embark on a thrilling saga of revenge. In this journey of vengeance, she’s not alone. Standing by her side is Aryaman, another warrior born from the Brahmayantra’s power. Their bond is unbreakable, forged in the crucible of shared experiences and challenges alike. To delve deeper into their extraordinary connection and witness their awe-inspiring journey, tune in to Brahmayantra on Pocket FM!
Four More Shots Please! (Amazon Prime): Craving a series with a strong female bond? Look no further than “Four More Shots Please!” on Amazon Prime Video. This dramedy follows four unapologetically independent women navigating love, careers, and societal expectations in modern-day Mumbai. Through thick and thin, their unwavering support and hilarious escapades showcase the power of female friendship, making it a perfect pick for a night in with your besties, raising a glass (or four) to the friends who make life a little sweeter (and a lot more fun).
TVF Tripling (Zee5): This heartwarming web series delves into the lives of three siblings – each with distinct personalities, dreams, and quirks. Despite their differences, they share a special bond built on shared experiences, unwavering support, and a whole lot of laughter. Tripling offers a refreshing take on friendship, reminding us that the strongest bonds can often be found within our own families. The three protagonists decide to embark on a road trip together to get over their lives’ despair and come back afresh.
Kai Po Che! (Netflix): Dive into the lives of three friends – Ishaan, Omkar, and Govind starring Sushant Singh Rajput, Amit Sadh and Rajkummar Rao – in this coming-of-age sports drama set in Ahmedabad. Their shared passion for cricket fuels their dream of opening a sports academy. However, their journey is not without its challenges. As they navigate the changing social and political landscape of India, their friendship is tested by personal ambitions, societal pressures, and devastating tragedies. But through it all, their unwavering support for each other remains constant, reminding us of the strength that comes from having true friends by your side.
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- By Rabindra
2, Aug 2024
Tata Tea Premium, Desh ki Chai celebrates the ‘Vaddi Insaiyat’ of Punjab
Chandigarh, 2nd August, 2024- Tata Tea Premium, flagship tea brand from Tata Consumer Products portfolio takes you on an engaging journey in Punjab with the launch of a new film under the aegis of its hyperlocal strategy. The film brings alive the brand proposition of ‘Desh ki chai, apne Pradesh ka swad’ anchored through a societal truth that is unique to the state.
The film celebrates its large heartedness and its unwavering compassion for community service. It captures the heartfelt gesture of children using their ‘dabbas’(lunch boxes) as ‘langars’ (community kitchens) to feed construction workers, illustrating how Punjab’s renowned large heartedness and tradition of ‘sewa’ is quintessentially ingrained into its cultural fabric even while growing up , finding expression even in young school kids/children .The video beautifully marries the brand’s product benefit of ‘Vadde Daanon Wali Chai” with the societal truth of “ Punjab’s large-heartedness” to bring alive the brand’s proposition of “Vadde Dil Wali Punjab Ke Liye Vadde Daanon Wali Chai”
Puneet Das, President – Packaged Beverages (India and South Asia), Tata Consumer Product, said “Tata Tea Premium had pivoted to its hyperlocal approach almost half a decade ago. While maintaining our national stature, we also leverage our regional expertise by understanding the unique preferences of each of the states. Our new films continue to bring alive the insight that is deeply rooted into the cultural truth and tea preference of each region. This in the process seamlessly brings alive the brand proposition of the region/state. Hence, these films tend to evoke a feeling of regional pride in the heart of our consumers.
“Each state and in turn its people are often fit into a ‘type’, while some stereotypes are biased and come from an outsider’s perspective, some in fact are true to their nature and our films celebrate this ‘local’ spirit in all its glory. For example, our Punjab film celebrates the large-heartedness of people of Punjab who are known to go out of their way to show compassion and serve others. We hope consumers will really love and connect with these engaging stories, as much as we did in bringing them to life. Aim is to continue to bring alive more such stories that evoke regional pride, through digital, on-ground and other media led activations.”
2, Aug 2024
Mr. Prashant Sharma on MahaRERA’s New Delivery Deadlines for Amenities
The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has introduced a crucial mandate requiring real estate developers to provide homebuyers with precise timelines regarding the availability of facilities and amenities within their projects. This regulation stipulates that developers must specify the exact date by which these amenities will be accessible, as well as the anticipated date for obtaining the occupation certificate (OC). This measure aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the real estate sector, ensuring that buyers are fully informed about the delivery timelines of key project elements. By enforcing these requirements, MahaRERA seeks to protect consumers’ interests, reduce disputes, and foster a more reliable and trustworthy real estate market in Maharashtra.
Mr. Prashant Sharma, President, NAREDCO Maharashtra
“As a progressive step towards enhancing transparency and accountability in the real estate sector, MahaRERA’s decision to make it mandatory for developers to specify the delivery date of amenities and the occupation certificate is a welcome move. This regulation will not only strengthen the trust between homebuyers and developers but also ensure that projects are delivered as promised. It marks a significant shift towards more consumer-centric practices, which will ultimately lead to a more robust and trustworthy real estate ecosystem in Maharashtra. NAREDCO Maharashtra fully supports this initiative, as it aligns with our commitment to fostering ethical practices and enhancing customer confidence in the industry.”
2, Aug 2024
Indegene reports robust profit growth for Q1FY25
New Delhi, India, 02 August 2024: Indegene Limited, a leading digital-first commercialization services company, announced financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.
- Achieved revenue of INR 6,765 million in Q1FY25 with growth of 11.4% vs Q1FY24
- Robust EBITDA growth of 14.5% in Q1FY25 vs Q1FY24
- Became a zero-debt company
| SI. No. | Particulars | Quarter ended | ||
| June 30, 2024 | Mar 31, 2024 | June 30, 2023 | ||
| 1. | Revenue from operations | 6,765 | 6,730 | 6,075 |
| 2. | Revenue from operations (1) ($ Mn) | 81.1 | 81.1 | 73.9 |
| 3. | YoY revenue growth from operations (2) (%) | 11.4% | 6.5% | 16.6% |
| 4. | EBITDA (3) | 1,328 | 1,474 | 1,160 |
| 5. | EBITDA margin (%) | 19.6% | 21.9% | 19.1% |
| 6. | Profit after tax | 877 | 948 | 684 |
| 7. | Profit margin (%) | 13.0% | 14.1% | 11.3% |
- Based on average exchange rate of ₹83.4 per USD for quarter ended June 30, 2024, ₹83.0 per USD for quarter ended March 31, 2024, and ₹82.2 per USD for quarter ended June 30, 2023, respectively.
- Based on INR revenue. YoY growth for quarter June 30, 2023, based on unaudited financials.
- Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) represents profit/(loss) for the period before income tax expense, finance costs, depreciation and amortization expense, interest income and any exceptional items.
“In Q1FY25, we achieved revenue growth of 11.4% and robust EBITDA growth of 14.5% vs Q1FY24. We continue to see momentum and growth with our largest client and a few of our Top 20 clients with increased activity and volume levels tracking the larger pipeline of impending new product launches”, said Manish Gupta, Chairman and CEO, Indegene Limited. “Based on our conversations with our top clients, we anticipate similar momentum across the industry. Further, compared to last year, our pipeline is heathier and the quality of conversations with clients is much better, which gives us confidence about driving robust growth in the medium term.”
“Our Q1FY25 EBITDA margin of 19.6% and PAT margin of 13.0% is an improvement of 50 bps and 170 bps vs Q1FY24. Indegene is now a zero-debt company with repayment of loans, and we anticipate the financial leverage to drive stronger PAT growth going forward”, said Suhas Prabhu, CFO, Indegene Limited. “Also, we continue to strengthen our technology and automation initiatives, which we believe will have a positive impact on the margin in the future. Further, we anticipate that the EBITDA margin would have a similar trajectory as FY24 with a stronger H2 compared to H1.”
2, Aug 2024
Sharad Tyagi Joins Cornitos as HR Head, Bringing 17 Years of FMCG Expertise
July, 2024 – Cornitos, India’s leading snack brand, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Sharad Tyagi as the new HR Head. His professional journey has seen him excel in various HR roles across leading national and multinational FMCG companies like DS Group. He has also been honoured with the People Excellence Award for his outstanding achievements in people management in his career. His extensive experience includes pivotal roles in the HR sector across industries, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the HR landscape.
In his new role as Head of Human Resources at Cornitos, Sharad will be responsible for shaping and executing HR strategies that align with the company’s vision and goals. Holding an MBA in HR and a professional soft skill trainer, his focus will be on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment, enhancing employee engagement and development, and driving organizational effectiveness. He will lead initiatives to attract, retain, and develop top talent, ensuring that Cornitos continues to thrive as a people-first organization.
Upon his appointment, Sharad Tyagi expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am proud to be a part of Greendot Health Foods Pvt Ltd, an organization that values its people as its greatest asset. Our team’s dedication to creating a positive work environment has been instrumental in driving business results. I am proud of what we have achieved and look forward to continuing to innovate and grow.”
2, Aug 2024
Chowman’s Oriental Seafood Festival is now Live
Bangalore, Kolkata,2nd August 2024: Leading chain of Chinese restaurants, Chowman is all set to make a comeback with its 13th edition of ‘Oriental Seafood Festival – 2024’ from 18th July onwards. Live in all Chowman outlets of Kolkata, Bangalore, Delhi & Hyderabad; this festival promises to be a culinary extravaganza bringing together the finest seafood dishes and the best of Oriental flavors!
“Our Seafood Festival is a signature annual event that truly showcases our brand’s pinnacle, capturing the hearts of seafood lovers nationwide. This month-long culinary celebration is a feast for the senses, and this year is the 13th edition of this culinary fiesta. We’ve casted a wide array of the finest flavors with our team of chefs and we are confident that this year’s Seafood Festival will be another resounding success!” said Debaditya Chaudhury, Managing Director of Chowman.
Started from: 12th July 2024
Time: 12 Noon – 10.30 PM
2, Aug 2024
Resolution nods under IBC up by a record 42% in fiscal 2024
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) clocked the highest ever resolutions in fiscal 2024, with 2691 cases getting the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) nod for resolution plans, a 42% growth over 189 in fiscal 2023.
Of the 269 cases, ~88% are from the backlog of earlier years’ admissions. This has been driven by greater investor interest in turnaround of stressed assets as seen in the resolution plan submissions. Appointment of new NCLT members has also aided in higher number of resolution cases.
The moderation in recovery rates2 and stretched timelines played spoilsport, though. The year saw resolution plans with recovery rates of ~27% of admitted claims, lower than ~36% realised in fiscal 2023. Resolution timelines stretched to ~850 days compared with ~825 days in the previous fiscal (see chart 1 in annexure).
With demand durability likely across most sectors, the number of acceptable resolution plans received by lenders under NCLT has increased. Real estate and manufacturing contributed to ~65% of total plans approved for fiscal 2024.
Resolution count in the real estate and manufacturing sectors increased by ~200% and 22%, respectively, in fiscal 2024, compared with fiscal 2023. In the real estate sector, healthy demand growth for residential real estate in fiscal 2024 and expectation of healthy growth over the next two fiscals have sparked interest among resolution applicants. In manufacturing, resolutions for mid-sized and small companies3 were in focus as many larger companies are already resolved.
Says Mohit Makhija, Senior Director, CRISIL Ratings, “The higher case resolution momentum is a result of continuous efforts to improve the resolution throughput rate of IBC through structural reforms, the most prominent being the appointment of 15 additional NCLT members in the later part of fiscal 2023. Progress on other initiatives announced in recent budget, like implementation of unified IT platform for data storage and dissemination through common dashboards to all stakeholders will help in strengthening the data management structures necessary for enhancing higher resolution capabilities over the medium term.”
At the same time, delays in admission of cases by NCLT due to the burden of ongoing cases, along with multiple cross litigations between stakeholders, objections filed by promoters and deferred case hearings, are stretching the resolution timelines.
One of the hurdles in maximising recovery and reducing resolution timelines is the load of ongoing cases at NCLT — ~4,400 cases as of March 2024. Lack of a common mediation platform for both promoters and lenders to discuss and find solutions for a quicker settlement was another hurdle
To reduce the resolution timeline, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) is mulling the introduction of formal out-of-court solutions such as Insolvency Mediation4, as per the recommendation of the expert committee constituted by IBBI in January 2024. This process would entail mediation pre- and post-admission to seek consensus among stakeholders for settlement, thereby preserving the business value of the stressed company through faster resolutions.
Says Sushant Sarode, Director, CRISIL Ratings, “Delay in resolution not only impairs the asset value but also reduces the chance of its revival. Resolutions over the past three fiscals indicate that a one-year delay in resolution depletes the recovery rate by 800-1,000 bps (see chart 2 in annexure). Hence, initiatives such as Insolvency Mediation and increasing NCLT benches are steps in the right direction towards reducing timelines for resolution, and thereby enhancing recovery rates for lenders.”
2, Aug 2024
Ambrane Introduces PowerLit 30 Power Bank: An Emergency Power Saver for Laptops
Delhi: Ambrane, a leading Indian consumer electronics and mobile accessory brand, has launched its latest charging solution, the ‘PowerLit 30’ power bank. Featuring a robust 10,000mAh capacity and multiple charging ports, including Type-C and USB-A, this power bank ensures rapid charging for various devices, including being an emergency power saver for laptops.
The PowerLit 30 boasts a premium metallic design, offering a sleek and modern look. Its compact design allows it to easily slip into any pocket while delivering enough power to charge even a MacBook Air. With 30W fast-charging capabilities, this power bank is perfect for powering phones, Type-C laptops, and more, wherever you need it. Despite its powerful performance, the PowerLit 30 remains lightweight, weighing just 190 grams.
With PowerLit 30, power up an iPhone 15 to 57% in just 30 minutes or a MacBook Air to 50% in just 30 minutes with PowerLit 30’s 30W BoostedSpeed™, ensuring quick and efficient charging for your devices. The power bank is equipped with both Type-C and USB-A output ports and supports Power Delivery, Quick Charge 3.0, VOOC, PPS, DASH, and WARP protocols for fast and efficient charging. Five LED indicators provide real-time battery status, keeping you informed at all times.
The power bank supports SafeCharge Technology, offering comprehensive protection including overload, over-voltage, electrostatic, overcurrent, short circuit, and circuit identification protection. This ensures your devices are safe and secure while charging. Certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and backed by a 180-day warranty, the PowerLit 30 is available in stylish Black and Purple colors.
Ambrane has received an overwhelmingly positive response to its AeroSync products, particularly during Amazon’s Prime Days. The launch of the PowerLit 30 further solidifies Ambrane’s position as a disruptor in the charging portfolio.
2, Aug 2024
Dubai Welcomes A Record 9.31 Million Visitors in H1 2024
National, 2nd August 2024: Dubai welcomed 9.31 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2024, a 9% increase over the 8.55 million tourist arrivals in the first half of 2023, according to data published by Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
Following a landmark 2023, when the city hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors, Dubai maintained its robust tourism momentum into the first six months of this year, putting the city on track for a record performance in 2024. Driven by DET’s efforts in collaboration with stakeholders and partners, the growth in international visitation aligns with the overarching objective to make Dubai the best city to visit, live, and work in.
Global accolades and industry events
The rise in international visitation during H1 is the result of citywide strategies established across key tourism pillars, created, and implemented in partnership with stakeholders across the public and private sectors. Starting 2024 on a high note, Dubai was named the No.1 global destination for an unprecedented third successive year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards in January, making it the first city to achieve this unique accolade.
From January to June 2024, South Asia has emerged as a major source market, with 1.62 million visitors (17%). North-East and South-East Asia grew from an 8% share at the beginning of the year to a 10% share (896,000) of the total visitors by the end of H1 2024.
Hotels and hospitality
World-class hotels and accommodation continue to be one of the core pillars of Dubai’s destination offering, and adding to the city’s appeal for global visitors, H1 saw a number of high-profile openings including: The Lana, Dorchester Collection’s first Middle East property; SIRO One Za’abeel, Dubai’s first fitness hotel; and Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences.
Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Dubai has continued to stay ahead of the curve by further elevating standards with innovative and distinctive world-class infrastructure, experiences and attractions. An exceptional quality of life, safety, and accessibility have been consistently recognised across multiple global indices and we are committed to leveraging partnerships between the public and private sectors to showcase Dubai as a must-visit destination. The unwavering support of our partners and stakeholders will be crucial in driving our strong global and market-specific campaigns this summer, as we look to build on this positive growth throughout the rest of 2024.”
Partnerships, collaborations and campaigns
In collaboration with its stakeholders and partners, DET continues to create new pathways to growth beyond traditional tourism, through investment, entrepreneurship, and attracting global talent, ensuring the city remains a hub of creativity, innovation, and technological advancement.
Among the major attractions to open in the first half of the year was Real Madrid World at Dubai Parks and Resorts, the first theme park in the world to be operating under the branding of the famed Spanish football club. The opening aligns with wider collaborative efforts between the club and Dubai, including a multi-year agreement signed between DET and Real Madrid in October 2023.
Dubai has also established ongoing partnerships with major names in the music and entertainment fields, including Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, who has become a vocal supporter of the emirate.
A global culinary and cruise hub
Dubai’s position as a world gastronomy capital was further reinforced after the third edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai was unveiled in July. The guide featured 106 restaurants, up from 90 in 2023, including four that were awarded two stars, 15 with one star, three with a green star, 18 Bib Gourmands, and 69 MICHELIN-selected restaurants.
International events destination
Dubai’s status as a global entertainment hub is bolstered by a year-round calendar of business, leisure and sporting events, which continue to attract international tourists. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), some of Dubai’s biggest annual events were held during the first half of the year, including Dubai Shopping Festival, Chinese New Year, Ramadan in Dubai, Eid in Dubai, and Dubai Food Festival. The ongoing Dubai Summer Surprises is one of Dubai’s major shopping and entertainment events which makes the city as lively and vibrant in the summer season as it is during all other times of the year, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading summer destination for families. Upcoming events throughout the rest of 2024 include Dubai Fashion Season Fall/Winter, Dubai Fitness Challenge, golf’s DP World Tour Championship, Emirates Dubai 7s, and UAE Union Day.
Sustainability initiatives
The UAE’s ‘Year of Sustainability’ was extended into 2024 and Dubai’s tourism and hospitality sectors continued to spearhead the city’s ecotourism strategy. Released by DET in May, the inaugural ‘Dubai Sustainability Report’ highlighted the development plans and achievements that support global objectives such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 2030, and country-wide strategies including the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 initiative.
As part of DET’s ongoing Dubai Sustainable Tourism drive, the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp was awarded to 70 hotels in January, with more to be named in the coming months. The stamp recognises hotels with the highest level of adherence to DET’s ‘19 Sustainability Requirements’, through a three-tier scheme with categories Gold, Silver and Bronze.
Another major citywide sustainability initiative is Dubai Can, which is aligned with efforts to transform the emirate into a leading sustainable destination and the best city in the world to visit, live and work in. Since its launch in February 2022, the Dubai Can initiative, through its ‘Refill for Life’ campaign, has seen the reduction in the usage of an equivalent of more than 20.4 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles and 10.5 million litres of water dispensed via 50 water fountains located throughout the city. A major milestone for Dubai’s sustainability drive in H1 2024 was the launch of Dubai Reef’s pilot reef modules in April. Part of Dubai Can, Dubai Reef is the world’s largest marine reef development project, with 20,000 modules set to be deployed across 600 square kilometres of Dubai’s waters by 2027.
2, Aug 2024
Aster DM Healthcare extends support to the victims of the Wayanad Landslide in Kerala
Wayanad, 02 August 2024: In the wake of the devastating landslides that have struck Wayanad, Kerala, Aster DM Healthcare, one of the largest integrated healthcare providers, has stepped forward with profound compassion and support for the affected communities.
Responding swiftly to the disaster, Dr. Moopen’s Medical College (formerly DM Wayanad Institute of Medical Sciences) has mobilised resources in collaboration with government hospitals and Public Health Centres (PHCs) to provide immediate medical care. As of today, 173 people have been admitted, with 62 still under treatment. Seven individuals are in the intensive care unit, and 20 have undergone emergency surgery and are on the path to recovery.
The Kerala State Government has also generously furnished additional medical equipment and other supplies to facilitate efficient treatment. In addition to the tireless efforts of medical and non-medical personnel on the ground, Aster Volunteers have deployed a mobile medical unit and are supplying essential resources—including water, food, and other necessities—to support the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in their remarkable efforts.
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder and Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, expressed, “We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones and to the communities grappling with this profound calamity. Our heartfelt thoughts are with all those affected by this devastating disaster. In addition to the on-the-ground efforts that we are making, we have committed Rs. 1.5 crores to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund and Rs. 2.5 crores towards rebuilding homes for those who are being displaced as a result of the disaster. Furthermore, we will continue to support those affected by the disaster in any way that we can.”
U. Basheer, Executive Trustee, Dr. Moopen’s Medical College, also conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for Aster DM Healthcare’s prompt and substantial support during this crisis.
Aster DM Healthcare remains resolute in its mission to deliver compassionate and comprehensive care during this period of adversity. United in purpose, the organisation is committed to bringing relief and resilience to those in need, confident that their collective efforts will aid in the healing and recovery of the affected communities.
