Author: Rabindra

The DoubleTree by Hilton Pune – Chinchwad takes a step towards sustainability

Pune, India – DoubleTree by Hilton a leading business hotel committed to environmental responsibility, has recently implemented the usage of wooden key cards. This initiative not only ensures the provision of a safe check-in experience but also emphasizes the hotel’s commitment to sustainability by addressing concerns associated with single-use plastic.

“It’s time we eliminated the use of single-use plastic from our hotels and switch to more environment-friendly options. The hospitality industry continues to evolve and prioritize sustainability and opting for wooden hotel key cards is the way forward” said Vinay Nair, General Manager. He further added that “Hilton’s global environmental, social and governance strategy is to Travel with Purpose. Through this, the brand seeks to create positive environmental and social impact across its operations, supply chain and communities”

Although it’s a small step towards sustainability, this will have a significant environmental impact when combined with the other measures taken by the hotel towards green initiatives. In the past the hotel has taken up several other initiatives to reduce the dependency on single-use plastic – the hotel has switched to glass bottles as a part of in-room amenities, and plastic straws have been substituted with biodegradable materials. Last year, the hotel also built its own Christmas tree using recyclable wood. Small steps like these go a long way in reducing the ecological footprint.

The hotel strongly believes that as an industry, we must continue to strive to reduce our impact on the environment and implement eco-friendly alternatives for guest service items where possible

ZF India and IIT Madras Partner to Build Global Mobility Digital Infrastructure

Chennai, 27th May 2024: ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IITM), focusing on the ‘Mobility and Intelligent Transportation’ (MInT), which has an ambitious goal of building the Bharat Multi-Modal Mobility Stack (BM3S). The BM3S is a game-changing digital mobility infrastructure empowering the development of holistic system solutions for sustainable and intelligent transportation globally.

“At ZF, we are committed to shaping the future of mobility with innovative solutions that are technologically advanced and create connected, safe, smart, and sustainable mobility,” says Mr. P. Kaniappan, Managing Director, ZF Commercial Vehicles Solutions India Limited. “This collaboration with IITM is a definitive step towards addressing the challenges of modern mobility. BM3S has the potential to revolutionize how we approach transportation, in India and the world, and we are excited to be a part of this groundbreaking initiative and in the overall greater digital mobility.”

Dr. Christian Brenneke, Head of R&D and System Solutions – Sr VP, Engineering Solutions, ZF CVS stated, “Modern India’s mobility challenges are also reflective of the issues faced worldwide. ZF is at the forefront of driving cutting edge mobility technologies and solutions that most effectively address these issues, with the potential to transform and scale up for global needs. The MInT collaborative is a testament to this vision and will give a greater impetus to the initiative. Through continued collaboration between industry leaders like the ZF Group, forward thinking government agencies, and globally recognized academic institutions like IIT Madras, the industry will be better positioned to accelerate the development of cutting-edge mobility technologies.”

Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean of Industrial Consulting and Sponsored Research, at IIT Madras stated: “IIT Madras is committed to bringing about technological innovations through translational research. We have multiple centers working in the area of mobility and digital technologies. The MInT collaborative and this partnership with ZF, a global leader in mobility products and solutions, will help accelerate mobility research to practice.

With a focus on safety, sustainability, and equity, BM3S will pave the way for significant advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and intelligent transportation systems. It aims to seamlessly integrate data streams, payment systems, vehicle technologies, and digital twin models.

Working together this collaboration aims to co-create a digital platform that will drive the development of holistic system solutions aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including:

• Sustainable Transport (11.2): Achieve a 50% reduction in total transport emissions.
• Accident Prevention (3.6): Reduce fatalities by 50%.
• Energy Efficiency (7.3): Ensure 50% of all transport comes from net zero modes.

A Ganesamoorthy, Head of Engineering, CVS R&D, Region India, is the lead for this collaborative from ZF and will facilitate co-creating system solutions that enable Mobility and Intelligent Transport with digital infrastructure as the innovation engine.

Dr. Ramakrishna Srinivasan, the CEO, MInT Collaborative, IIT Madras stated, “By bringing together industry, government, and academia, the MInT consortium will co-create BM3S, laying the foundation for a safer, more sustainable, and equitable mobility ecosystem. We are happy to anchor the MInT Collaborative with world-leading technological and human resources in numerous fields. This initiative is the beginning of the exciting technology journey to bring to life the ‘Mobility Dreams for a Billion’. Mobility – safe, and efficient movement of people and goods – is the backbone of the modern economy. Digital infrastructure complements and optimizes the physical infrastructure and is an innovation engine to advance future mobility.”

Prof. Gitakrishnan Ramadurai, Faculty In-charge, MInT Collaborative, IIT Madras said: “The Bharat Multi-Modal Mobility Stack is a digital platform to foster the “Build for India, Solve for the World” Goals. It defines mobility as a digital public good and serves as a benchmark for standardizing, developing and deploying mobility tools and services for a billion and more. “

Manasum announces Banyan project at Godrej Royale Woods

New Delhi 27th May 2024: In a significant move to redefine senior living in India, Manasum Group, one of the fastest-growing senior living brands, has introduced “Banyan” at Godrej Royale Woods in North Bengaluru. This serene sanctuary for seniors offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and holistic wellness, setting a new benchmark for retirement homes in the country.

Strategically located just a 5-minute drive from the KIAL airport toll, Banyan features ready-to-move-in 1 & 2 BHK residences starting from Rs 60 lakh onwards. These elegant and sophisticated homes are designed to meet the discerning needs of today’s seniors, blending convenience with style in a tranquil environment.

Banyan’s commitment to holistic living is evident through its comprehensive range of amenities aimed at ensuring the physical, emotional, and social well-being of its residents. The facility includes in-house nursing care, 24×7 ambulance services, wheelchair-friendly infrastructure, emergency alarm systems, housekeeping, and meal options. Every detail is meticulously crafted to prioritize the safety, security, and peace of mind of its residents.

“With Manasum Banyan, we aim to redefine the concept of retirement living by offering a holistic and enriching lifestyle that promotes wellness, community, and joy. Our vision is to create a vibrant and inclusive community where residents can thrive in every aspect of their lives, surrounded by nature’s bounty and unparalleled amenities,” said Mr. Anantharam Varayur, Co-founder of Manasum Senior Living Homes.

Kushal Ramesh, co-founder of Manasum, highlighted the company’s existing Greenfield senior living apartment in southern Bengaluru, launched Four years ago. “However, it becomes difficult for smaller developers to pour extensive capital into such projects. Additionally, today’s seniors prefer to stay within the city and close to bustling areas. Hence, we decided to extend the idea of Intergenerational communities “he explained.

Ramesh noted that partnerships are more practical than complete buyouts at an early stage due to the substantial capital involved. “We only pursue buyouts for projects that are nearing completion and have proper senior living designs in place,” he added.

Anantharam mentioned that Bengaluru has the potential to absorb 10,000 units of senior living apartments over the next couple of years. “By the next financial year, we will add 2000 more units by 2025 totaling 2500 units under Manasum. We are already in talks with developers to explore the integrated concept,” he said.

Spanning 13 acres, the Banyan project comprises 191 residences while the project Godrej Royale Woods has 1678 units in total and features over 1000 trees, creating a tranquil sanctuary amidst the bustling cityscape. The community offers unparalleled convenience and luxury, with residents able to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a variety of recreational activities. From Hammock Gardens and Jogging Tracks to Meditation Decks and Outdoor BBQ areas, Banyan provides a unique blend of relaxation and active living.

Manasum Group’s Banyan at Godrej Royale Woods continues to set a high standard for elderly homes in India, offering a sanctuary where seniors can enjoy a harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle.

Simiran Kaur Dhadli is back with her latest single Dupatta Drill

27th May 2024: The unstoppable Simiran Kaur Dhadli, from Punjab, also known as The Woman King returns to her throne in the hip-hop realm as she drops a new banger “Dupatta Drill.” Combined with hints of Punjabi and Haryanvi twists, this fierce track celebrates her Jaatni swag in all its glory. Showcasing Simiran’s undeniable strength and courage, the electrifying beats leave an indelible impression on the audience.

Featuring the charming Pranjal Dahiya in the music video along with Simiran, the throbbing rhythm of “Dupatta Drill ” carves a lasting impression. Pulsating with captivating enthusiasm with the masterful lyricism of Rawme Hooda. Produced by the talented Stanley Christ, the track exceptionally portrays the vision of Honey Virk, whose direction brings together a fusion of traditional and hip-hop styles.

Sharing her excitement on the release, singer-performer Simiran Kaur Dhadli shared, “This song is a deeply personal celebration of my culture and tradition blended with confidence and swag. Dupatta Drill has allowed me to explore my roots through a mix of ancestral Punjabi and Haryanvi beats. I can’t wait for the listeners to enjoy the track and to celebrate love.”

Utkarsh K. Nemade Honored with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Jeevan Gaurav Puraskaar

Pune, India – In a grand ceremony held today in Pune, Indian film director Utkarsh K. Nemade was awarded the prestigious Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Jeevan Gaurav Puraskaar. This national award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation in their respective fields.

Utkarsh Nemade, a prodigious talent in the Indian film industry, holds the unique distinction of being the first Indian to achieve four world records in a single year. At just 16 years old, he founded MOHRAN’s Productions, a film production company that has since distributed over 25 Hindi and Marathi films. His remarkable achievements in such a short span have made him a standout figure in the industry.

The award ceremony was organized by the Global Scholar Foundation, which honors individuals from across India for their exceptional contributions. The award was presented by Padmashri Dr. Vijaykumar Shah, a renowned dental surgeon with over 25 honorary doctorates (HC) and 50 fellowships to his name.

Utkarsh was the youngest recipient at the ceremony, highlighting not only his extraordinary accomplishments but also his potential to inspire the younger generation. His dedication and passion for filmmaking have set a high benchmark in the industry, and his contributions have significantly enriched Indian cinema.

The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Jeevan Gaurav Puraskaar serves as a testament to Utkarsh K. Nemade’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering commitment to the arts. As he continues to break new ground, his journey stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers and artists across the nation.

Irrigation initiative seeds hope in Rajasthan farmers

Nestled amidst the arid terrain of Rajasthan, Lakheriis is surrounded by farmland and villages. The town in Bundi district is situated about 180 km from the state capital Jaipur, and crops like wheat, soybean, and mustard are commonly grown here. Its residents rely on traditional methods of farming but in recent years, the lack of timely rainfall has become a matter of concern.

The region gets about 638 mm of rainfall annually but lacks an efficient rainwater harvesting, water management, and conservation system. As a result of this, the villages here face drinking water shortages during the summer. Over the years, several people have moved out to work as laborers at nearby brick kilns or to other parts of the country in search of a livelihood.

In Lakheri, the need for irrigation is not just a matter of convenience; it is needed for sustenance. Driven by the need for an efficient irrigation network to help farmers, the Adani Foundation worked closely with the local communities to build a facility in the Kankra Dungar and Utrana villages.

A tributary of the Chambal passes about 4km from these villages, and a system has been set up to supply water from it to nearby farmland through underground PVC pipes. The project benefits nearly 500 farmer families in the villages, who have cultivable land in the ACC Lakheri Cement Project catchment area. In coordination with the local communities, village-level committees have been set up to take care of the operation, management, and maintenance of their irrigation system.

Earlier, more than 90% of farmers grew a single crop every year–urad and soybean in the Kharif season. Barely 10% of farmers cultivated in the Rabi season, growing crops like mustard, wheat, and gram.

After the new irrigation system was built, the situation changed for the better. Now, many farmers have adopted a multi-crop model to increase their income and diversify crops across all seasons. And the results started showing soon enough. In the first year of its operation, additional crop cultivation was recorded and the average yield per hectare increased by 20%-30% due to the availability of water.

According to a local villager, in the very first year, he was able to produce 16 quintals of wheat and 14 quintals of mustard, whose market value was more than Rs 1 lakh.

The irrigation system has not only ensured a livelihood for farmers in the region but is also helping reduce the migration of locals in search of jobs. Truly, a win-win situation for all.

Snitch Lights Up Vadodara with the Grand Opening of Two New Stores

New Delhi, 27th May 2024 – Snitch, a leading D2C men’s fast fashion brand today announced the expansion of its exclusive stores to Vadodara, Gujarat. The first store was launched on April 17th, 2024, at Neptune Trion, in the heart of Vadodara. This is also the brand’s largest store in Gujarat. The second store was inaugurated on May 19th, 2024, at EVA Mall, Vadodara.

With the inauguration, the company now has 6 exclusive stores in India, including two stores each in Surat and Bangalore. These stores showcase the latest in men’s apparel and accessories, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in a world of style and elegance.

“We’re thrilled to introduce Snitch’s style and quality to Vadodara,” said Siddharth Dungarwal, Founder & CEO of Snitch. “Our focus has always been on delivering exceptional shopping experiences, both online and offline. Our stores provide us a chance to interact with thousands of customers and learn about their unique tastes and preferences. These learnings, along with our deep experience in men’s fashion, enable us to craft more relevant and compelling offerings for our customers. Our latest stores in Vadodara are an extension of the same philosophy.”

Dungarwal further added, “We are committed to growing our offline presence. Soon, we will add multiple stores in urban India.”

Snitch has already garnered a loyal following for its trendy designs, high-quality products, and sustainability efforts. The brand’s expansion into new markets reflects its growing popularity and the increasing demand for its products.

OYO launches 7 company serviced hotels, targets 35 new properties in 2024

Global hospitality technology company OYO has announced that it will launch 35 company-serviced hotels in Mumbai this year. During the pilot phase of the program, OYO has already launched seven hotels in this category Townhouse Vista Suites PBG Mall Vashi; Super Townhouse Blue Diamond Vashi; Townhouse Ace Marol Near Mumbai, International Airport, Super OYO Kailash Park Near Shivaji International Airport; Super Collection O in Kalyan West; Collection O Milona, Airoli and Palette Irayos Lifestyle Retreat in Palghar.

OYO is also looking for partnerships with real estate developers to identify and develop new hotel properties across various regions. These hotels will be operated by OYO’s most professional hotel operators, which will allow them to grow and expand their business.

These hotels will be listed on OYO’s app and website as ‘Company Serviced’ hotels to signal OYO’s active involvement in their operation.

OYO plans to accelerate its expansion by combining OYO’s innovative technology and hospitality solutions with the real estate sector’s insights and local knowledge. The program will allow its top hotel partners to earn additional revenue without taking the risk of leasing or the overhead costs of starting a new hotel. These operators will get dedicated relationship managers and access to OYO’s network of over 15,000 corporate accounts and more than 10,000 travel agents.

Most of these hotels will be onboarded under the company’s premium hotel offerings such as Townhouse, Townhouse Oak, and Collection O.

In the process, OYO is also providing property or hotel owners an opportunity to give out their property to a large organization at a fixed rental, revenue sharing or management contract basis and be assured of safe upkeep of their property.

The company will closely monitor the hotel’s upkeep and customer reviews to evaluate and reward the top operators.
The initiative aims at establishing a collaborative ecosystem where OYO, hotel operators, and property owners will work together to run guest-focused, well-run hotels in line with the company’s aim of fostering economic growth in communities through partnerships.

The program underscores OYO’s commitment to providing a comprehensive range of choices to customers. Whether it’s a business trip, family vacation, or solo adventure, guests will have more stay options in top-rated properties that complement their travel styles, budgets, and preferences.

Speaking on the development, Varun Jain, Chief Operating Officer, OYO said “Our new serviced hotels in Mumbai are designed to cater to the diverse needs of business and leisure travelers alike. With a focus on comfort, convenience, and personalized service, these properties offer a blend of modern amenities and exceptional value.”

Commenting on the opportunity, BuntySayal of Hotel Blue Diamond, Vashisaid “”OYO has made managing my hotel operations incredibly convenient, allowing me to oversee everything without being physically present throughout the day. I receive regular updates and assured returns, all without the worry of property upkeep. Their efficient management and reliable service have truly been beneficial for me.”

OYO Rooms has simplified, modernized, and digitalized its tech stack to help patrons increase their visibility and in turn, improve their revenue. Its revamped technology products, like Co-OYO, allow patrons to design and run their promotional offers to increase occupancy. The AI-based self-onboarding tool OYO 360 provides a simple two-click platform to enroll patrons on its platform. With a simple review, in a single click, the property will be live in just 30 minutes across all platforms.