23, Dec 2023
Kaise Banta Hai by Digikore Studios to premiere on Jio Cinema
Mumbai: December 23, 2023: Digikore Studios is set to captivate audiences once again with their upcoming show, ‘Kaise Banta Hai,’ slated to premiere on Jio Cinema. This season will comprise 8 episodes, with a frequency of 2 episodes airing per week.
Building on the success of their blockbuster angel investment show ‘Indian Angels,’ which revolutionized viewer participation in investment, ‘Kaise Banta Hai’ aims to redefine entertainment by delving into the intricate world of manufacturing. Inspired by global hits like “How It’s Made” and “Megafactories,” this series promises an immersive journey into the creation of everyday objects.
Abhishek More, Founder and CEO of Digikore Studios said, “Our show is all about uncovering the incredible work that goes into making stuff we often take for granted. We want you to feel proud of the things made in our country and get excited to learn more about them. It’s like discovering the behind-the-scenes stories of your favorite things—seeing the hard work and attention to detail that make them special. We hope to make you see these everyday items in a whole new light and get you curious about the fantastic world of manufacturing right here in India!”
Speaking on the association, a JioCinema spokesperson said, “JioCinema is delighted to partner with Digikore Studios once again for its new show, ‘Kaise Banta Hai’, a concept that is interesting and unique. The platform was built with a vision to empower viewers with limitless storytelling from India and across the globe. The extensive and diverse user base of JioCinema makes it a compelling platform for brands that aim to reach out to a wide audience segment. With this continued partnership, we look forward to bringing yet another series that will elevate the viewing experience of our audiences while we forge impact-driven and meaningful partnerships in the digital entertainment space.”
“Kaise Banta Hai” will showcase the intricate processes behind the production of various products, encompassing aspects like technology, quality, management, and more. The show’s concept revolves around fostering a deeper connection between audiences and the objects that surround them daily. Each episode serves as a captivating journey led by hosts, unraveling the mystery and craftsmanship behind familiar items. The blend of individual factory stories, production intricacies, and engaging moments aims to create an unparalleled viewing experience, unique to ‘Kaise Banta Hai.’
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- By Rabindra
23, Dec 2023
Tata Motors’ New Safari and Harrier SUVs receive first ever Bharat-NCAP 5-star rating
Bengaluru, December 23, 2023: Continuing with its legacy of introducing the safest vehicles on Indian roads, Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile brand, today set another example for the Indian automotive industry. Its iconic, flagship SUV, the new Safari and the trendsetting, premium SUV the Harrier, have become the first recipients of the 5-star rating (adult occupant protection and child occupant protection), as per the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat-NCAP), India’s very own and independent safety performance evaluation protocol.
Announcing this distinctive achievement, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari ji, said, “Bharat-NCAP is India’s independent, atmanirbhar voice on vehicle safety. It is benchmarked to the best-in-class global standards and the Bharat-NCAP vehicle rating system is designed to advance road safety and vehicle safety standards beyond mandatory regulations. I’m delighted that the first ever vehicles being certified today with the highest achievable 5-star rating, are both from Tata Motors. I congratulate them on award of this coveted certification with the highest possible ratings and for continuing to enrich their legacy of introducing the safest vehicles on Indian roads.”
Prominent Safety Features in the new Safari & Harrier
7 airbags with 6 as standard across personas
Electronic Stability Control as standard
3-point seatbelts in all rows
Seat Belt Reminder for all passengers
Isofix tethers
Seatbelts with Retractor, Pretensioner, Load Limiter (RPLL) and anchor pretensioner
Reinforced cabin structure enhanced to provide symmetric crash performance and side pole impact
Receiving the coveted certification, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, MD, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “Bharat-NCAP is a significant step forward as it provides customers with a credible, objective score to evaluate the safety aspects of various vehicles. Informed customers taking optimal decisions will further foster the rising preference for safer vehicles in the country. We acknowledge and appreciate the collaborative efforts of the government, regulatory bodies, and the automotive industry in this pursuit. At Tata Motors, safety is at the \ core of our DNA and we are honoured to win this maiden Bharat-NCAP certification with an exemplary 5-star rating for two of our vehicles. We remain committed and will continue to work towards improving vehicle safety holistically.”
Built on the OMEGARC architecture, derived from Land Rover’s renowned D8 Platform, the powerful and stylish Safari and Harrier SUVs also come with the highest 5-star GNCAP rating and are truly the safest vehicles on Indian roads.
23, Dec 2023
Ceat Indian Supercross Racing League Reveals Rider Auction Details And Extends Unique Opportunity For Brands To Be Part Of The Extravaganza
Bengaluru, December 23, 2023: The CEAT Indian Supercross Racing League 2024 has announced the roster for its upcoming rider auction in Pune on January 7th, 2024. CEAT ISRL is the world’s first Supercross series that transcends geographical boundaries, attracting champion riders to showcase their talent and etch their names on the global best chart. The league is extending a unique opportunity for brands to be part of the high-octane excitement of off-road racing during its inaugural season.
The auction pool will feature a total of 104 riders, including 73 international racers slated to race in India for the first time and 31 Indian riders. Each team is allowed up to 2 riders per category, with a maximum of 48 slots available.
The cumulative auction kitty in the Mega Rider Auction for season one totals INR 6 Cr, marking a significant milestone.
Mr. Eeshan Lokhande, Director & Co-Founder of the CEAT ISRL, expressed his enthusiasm for this mega auction happening in India for the first time. “The league’s decision to host a rider auction signifies its commitment to transparency and accountability in its recruitment process. This move will undoubtedly enhance the league’s credibility and promote a fair and level playing field for all participants and franchise owners.”
The franchises are gearing up for Season One, which promises to be a spectacle of speed and skill. Six teams are preparing to compete against each other in a thrilling display of racing prowess. BigRock Motorsport, led by CS Santosh, India’s rally-raid champion, is poised to make a monumental push for aspiring riders. The team is sure to impress with their skills and experience in the field. Gujarat Trailblazers, led by Indian motorsport legend Gaurav Gill, is another team to watch out for.
Reise MotoSports, owned by Mr Yogesh Mahansaria, is joining the fray to revolutionise Indian Supercross with its innovative approach. Team Mohite Racing, led by Mr. Abhishek Mohite, is committed to raising motorsport standards with their skills and expertise. APL Apollo-led SG Sports is another team expected to make waves in the competition. SG Speed Racers, the team’s official name, promises to bring fierce competition to the league. Lastly, Panchshil Racing, owned by Mr Atul Chordia, former motocross racer and owner of Panchshil Realty, recognises the immense potential of Supercross in India and aims to showcase its talents in the competition.
As the inaugural season approaches, now is the opportune moment for brands to join this revolutionary motorsport journey. ISRL invites brands from various industries to explore this exciting opportunity and become an intrinsic part of the off-road racing community in India with the growing supercross movement. Recognising the transformative power of brand collaboration, Mr. Lokhande further added, “The unveiling of branding opportunities further underlines the league’s desire to forge long-lasting partnerships with businesses that share its vision for growth and success. This represents an excellent opportunity for brands looking to make a mark in motorsports and gain exposure to a broader audience.”
CEAT ISRL Season One will host an impressive line-up of international champions and rising Indian stars. The championship will feature four exhilarating categories – 450cc international riders, 250cc international riders, 250cc India-Asia mix, and the fiercely competitive 85cc junior class. As the world’s best riders converge in India, the series will serve as the ultimate proving ground for global Supercross supremacy.
23, Dec 2023
JICA extends an ODA loan of INR 932 crores with the Government of India for Sustainable Development Goals
New Delhi, December 23, 2023: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has formalized a loan agreement of 15,301 million Yen (approx. INR 932 Crore)with the Government of India, for the “Program for Japan-India Cooperative Actions towards Sustainable Development Goals in India (Phase 2)” which will be implemented by NITI Aayog. The project, building on the success of its predecessor (Phase 1), aims to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in India by enhancing progress and promoting policy actions.
The project will cover all of India, targeting 112 Aspirational Districts (AD) and 500 Aspirational Blocks (AB). It focuses on promoting policy actions, implementing best practices, and strengthening the Japan-India partnership through human resource exchanges. Based on consultations with NITI Aayog, policy actions in five fields, such as “health and nutrition”, “education”, “agriculture and water resources”, “financial inclusion and skill development”, and “basic infrastructure” are prioritized and identified as policy matrix pillars are set in those fields.
In the sector of health and nutrition, the focus is to strengthen the regional healthcare system and promote maternal and child nutrition. Educational efforts include improving learning outcomes, creating inclusive school environments, and maintaining hygienic facilities. Agriculture and water resources initiatives aim to boost farmers’ profits and enhance the functions of agricultural producer associations by cultivating multiple varieties and high value crops. Financial inclusion and skills development focuses on expanding opportunities of skill training for youth and improving financial inclusion and social security coverage. Basic infrastructure improvements target internet penetration and universal water supply access.
Speaking on this occasion, Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India said, “At JICA, we are proud to continue our collaborative journey with the Government of India in advancing sustainable development. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering impactful change in critical areas and promoting a stronger Japan-India partnership. Together, we aim to contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future for all.”
India, on its path towards achieving SDGs, continues to advance, navigating complexities. The loan agreement of initial phase, “Program for Japan-India Cooperative Actions towards Sustainable Development Goals in India (Phase 1)” was signed in January 2019 (with an approval amount of 15 billion yen). It yielded positive outcomes, improving the SDG Achievement Score from 59.1 in 2018 to 60.1 in 2021. Under Phase 2 project, the quantitative and qualitative outcomes of policy actions will be monitored and evaluated in three tranches from April 2021 to March 2026. The project aligns with Japan’s Country Assistance Policy for India (March 2016) and various JICA Global Agendas.
23, Dec 2023
Tata Chemicals and Rallis India get top honors at ICAI Sustainability Reporting Awards 2023
Bengaluru, 23rd, December 2023: Tata Chemicals Limited has been honoured with the highest accolade, the Gold award, in “Excellence in BRSR (Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting) Mid Cap – Manufacturing Sector” at the 3rd ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India) Sustainability Reporting Awards 2022-23. Rallis India Limited, a subsidiary of Tata Chemicals, won the Silver award in the same category.
These recognitions by the ICAI underscore the organisations’ sustainability reporting practices, reflecting the dedication towards championing innovation, encouraging continuous improvements, and implementing knowledge and skills to achieve strategic objectives.
Speaking about this achievement Nandakumar S Tirumalai, Chief Financial Officer, Tata Chemicals, said, “We are honoured to receive the highest awards on excellence in sustainability reporting by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. These prestigious acknowledgments highlight our commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement in reporting standards on ESG. We steadfastly reinforce sustainability principles and continuously strive to set new benchmarks in the field of corporate responsibility and related disclosures.”
Both companies are dedicated to integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles into its businesses, emphasising the enhancement of the communities it serves.
Guided by its board-level SHES (Safety, Health, Environment and Sustainability) committee, Tata Chemicals and Rallis prioritise safety and sustainability in strategic initiatives, budgets, audits and improvement plans. Periodic internal reviews of charters and policies, overseen by senior management and board committees, highlight their comprehensive approach to safety and sustainability implications.
23, Dec 2023
Truflation launches Personal Inflation Calculator
Thursday, December 23, 2023 – Truflation, the independent and unbiased provider of verifiable economic data and indexes, has launched a Personal Inflation Calculator that instantly estimates each user’s “salary cut” as a result of inflation, while it also unveils a new portal to democratize data accessibility.
The user-friendly and intuitive income calculator is optimized for a selection of pre-set demographics, including “US urban professional” and “US retired senior”, to allow for a quick and seamless calculation of the impact inflation is having on each user’s household expenditure.
By choosing a demographic that best describes them, users can see a breakdown of their expenses and their loss of purchasing power based on the average pay for each category, as well as the salary they would need to earn to maintain their standard of living. Users can personalize their calculations with granular data input and download the result into their dashboard for future reference.
Commenting on the launch, Stefan Rust, CEO of Truflation, says: “Our personal inflation calculator allows individuals and small businesses to calculate the true impact of inflation on their purchasing power.
“This impact is often devastating. Truflation’s aggregated inflation rate shows that the average US household has lost 22.65% of its purchasing power since January 30, 2020. Truflation’s income calculator puts the power in the hands of the individual, empowering them to demand the salary they deserve to continue living their lives.”
In addition, Truflation is thrilled to unveil Truflation Marketplace: its new index and data feeds portal that democratizes access to its vast data sets via a sleek and easy-to-use interface. The portal unlocks access to the underlying data powering Truflation’s indexes via API integration and allows users to view in-depth historical data streams and the methodology behind each index.
Truflation’s independent, transparent, real-time data feeds are designed to provide the infrastructure for systemic advancements in decentralized finance, including in rapidly developing areas such as real-world asset (RWA) tokenization.
23, Dec 2023
Internovo Ventures unveils Indibook, a unique digital platform for digitising small businesses
Mumbai, 23rd, December 2023: Internovo Ventures, a joint venture between Interface Ventures and Novostack, has launched Indibook, a cutting-edge fintech platform specially designed to enable seamless record-keeping, accounting and borrowing for small merchants and businesses. Internovo Ventures had acquired Mera Cashier in February 2023 and has since completely overhauled the UI/UX, functionality and features of the platform to relaunch it as Indibook. Indibook currently has approximately 5,000 merchants and has plans to on-board 100,000 merchants by FY26.
Indibook has been designed to streamline everyday record-keeping requirements, thereby converting unorganised paper records into streamlined digital data which can be used for filing tax returns, accessing affordable credit and other purposes. Available in a subscription-based model, it facilitates easy monitoring of credit extended to customers (udhaar), comes with facilities like payment reminders to clients, vendor management, offer generation and monthly reports so that business owners can have complete control over business cash flows. Using Indibook, business owners will be able to improve credit recovery through features like early-trigger warning, etc.
Indibook is seamlessly integrated with Internovo’s loan facilitation platform Indirow which works with a large number of banks and NBFCs PAN India to arrange affordable and sustainable finance for its MSME customers. Lenders are partnering with Indibook to offer the platform to their loan customers in an effort to facilitate more transparency in how credit is disbursed and availed.
Commenting on the launch of Indibook, Mr. Karan Desai, Co-Founder, Internovo Ventures said “We have designed Indibook to bring the transformative impact of fintech to the small merchants so that they can boost operational efficiency, payment processing, customer experience, and fuel growth. By streamlining and automating various routine transactions and customer relationship-driven functions, Indibook frees up time and resources for the business owner to focus on other aspects of his business. Our platform allows merchants to create and seamlessly share their business transaction records with their banks and other financiers to avail of loans as and when needed. This fills a very important gap for small merchants in particular who don’t have a lot of transaction history in their bank accounts.”
Mr. Akshay Srivastava, Co-Founder and Lead Technology, Internovo Ventures said, “Indibook is not just a platform; it’s a strategic tool empowering small businesses to thrive in an increasingly dynamic market. Our aim is to simplify record-keeping processes, enhance financial control, and ultimately contribute to the success of entrepreneurs. Indibook is an initiative from our side to contribute to the entire Digital India initiative and empower small business owners to compete and thrive in an increasingly complex environment. “
23, Dec 2023
Vi becomes the first Telecom Operator to Provide Seamless Connectivity at Surat Diamond Exchange
The recently inaugurated Surat Diamond Bourse, the world’s largest center for international diamond and jewelry business is one of its kind Bourse is set to house over 4,000 offices and projected to generate over Rs 2 lakh crores worth of business annually.
Recognizing the criticality of reliable 24×7 network connectivity for the smooth and efficient functioning of an infrastructure of such massive proportions, Leading Telecom Operator Vi, has taken the initiative to install In-building sites at the Bourse to ensure that business units located within the premises receive seamless network connectivity.
Vi is focused on providing sustainable value that encompasses a superior data and voice experience, as well as building a differentiated digital experience for our customers. It is the only telecom operator to move with speed and get their network connectivity up and running through strategically positioned sites to ensure optimal coverage in the building. In the near future, Vi plans to further strengthen the network within the premises.
Commenting on this initiative, Sukanta Das, Cluster Business Head – Gujarat, Vodafone Idea, said, “At Vi, we use the power of technology to enhance our customers’ lives – through ubiquitous presence and connectivity to match the fast-paced business environment. As a brand that has always kept customer needs at the forefront of everything we do, we took the lead to become the first and only telecom operator to install In-Building sites at the Surat Diamond Exchange, the world’s largest center for diamond business. Vi customers working from the bourse can now experience seamless network connectivity at all hours. In the near future, we plan to add more sites to further strengthen the network within the premises.”
23, Dec 2023
Bombay Shaving Company Unveils ‘Styled By Bombay Shaving Company’ Campaign, Introducing Cutting-Edge Trimmer Range and Redefining Grooming Excellence for the Modern Indian Man
New Delhi, 23nd December, 2023: Bombay Shaving Company, the trailblazing name in hair removal and personal care, proudly unveils its latest campaign, ‘Styled by Bombay Shaving Company,’ ushering in a new era of grooming sophistication. The centerpiece of this campaign is a visually captivating film that introduces the brand’s groundbreaking innovative range of trimmers. The campaign is yet another step in the journey of Bombay Shaving Company’s commitment to setting new standards of hair removal for men across the body. Founder and CEO, Shantanu Deshpande, takes the spotlight, passionately endorsing the revolutionary HeadShaver PRO Trimmer—a standout in the brand’s impressive trimmer portfolio, designed specifically for bald men. This range is not just about grooming; it’s a statement of precision, innovation, and styling technology excellence.
The campaign unfolds as a celebration of head-to-toe styling, presenting Bombay Shaving Company’s exceptional Trimmer lineup dedicated to elevating the experience for the modern Indian man. From attention-grabbing opening frames to unforgettable closing moments, the film invites individuals to redefine their style game at the comfort of their home with cutting-edge products that embody confidence, individuality, and the transformative power of grooming.
BSC Trimmers are more than just a set of tools; it’s a dedication to delivering styling solutions tailored to contemporary men. Packed with features like a massive runtime, magnetic easy switch heads, and a 38-length settings dial for the perfectly styled trims, the range includes:
- Full Body Trimmer with 5 easy switch magnetic heads for head-to-toe grooming
- Power Styler Beard Trimmer with 38 style settings for unlimited beard styles
- Premium Multi Groomer for styling beard and body hair
- HeadShaver PRO for salon-like head shaves in 2 minutes
Landscaper focused on sensitive areas
- Power Play beard trimmer for performance and value
“In the spirit of celebrating individuality, we believe hair removal is a spectrum, we’re not out here trying to tell what’s best for you or what’s the ideal look for a man. What matters to us is that every man’s needs are different, and our new range of Trimmers are designed with a deep understanding of Men’s hair across their body, redefining functionality, convenience and Style. This launch reinforces our relentless commitment to delivering the best hair removal solutions for men,” affirms Shantanu Deshpande, Founder and CEO of Bombay Shaving Company.
The campaign film isn’t just an audio-visual delight; it’s a window into the brand’s essence, unveiling the new trimmer rangedesigned for specifc hair removal needs of men. This comprehensive solution effortlessly manages hair and elevates style for the beard, body, head, and groin.
Welcome to redefined hair removal— Get ready to be “Styled by Bombay Shaving Company”.
23, Dec 2023
Year 2024: Economic resilience, industry reforms keep insurance sector buoyant
Indian economy continued to show remarkable strength this year amid an evident global slowdown. This strength was largely driven by robust consumption, strong investment activity, and a burgeoning, aspirational consumer class. The country’s focus in recent years on bringing progressive policy reforms, and digital transformation has also supported this growth trajectory, enabling India to outperform its peers globally, particularly those in the Asian Pacific region.
Driven by this broader economic resilience, the insurance industry also stayed the course on growth. The year 2023 saw some market-moving developments for the industry including the government’s decision to levy tax on income arising from insurance policies with an aggregated premium worth Rs. 5 Lakhs every year, starting April 2023.
There was a sustained emphasis on digitalization to reimagine customer and distributor management processes. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) brought multiple reforms, focussing on 3 prominent themes – strengthening the ecosystem, improving accessibility & reach, and safeguarding policyholders’ interest.
As we now look forward to 2024, I expect regulatory reforms to continue to steer the industry. There are 3 key trends likely to unfold in the new year:
- Bima Trinity:
IRDAI has unveiled Bima Trinity initiative as a part of its vision of Insurance For All by 2047. The primary objective of this initiative is building affordability and accessibility of insurance. This project, which includes Bima Sugam, Bima Vistaar and Bima Vaahak, is expected to take off next year at different intervals.
Bima Sugam, which is an online marketplace encompassing the entire customer journey from buying to servicing, is expected to make accessibility of insurance much easier. Bima Vistaar promises to be a revolutionary insurance product which seeks to offer affordable protection to the masses. It is expected to be launched by January 2024. Bima Vaahak is a women-centric distribution channel at the Gram Sabha level that aims to empower women by educating them about the benefits of comprehensive insurance thus enabling their financial security.
Together, Bima Trinity will promote financial inclusivity, leverage digital to create an unmatched convenience, accessibility and simplification, affordable coverage, and foster higher participation of women in the insurance industry.
- Product Innovation:
The regulator has been placing a higher emphasis on the need for simplified, personalized products, aligned with the expectations of today’s customer expects. It also introduced the Use & File norms to achieve this goal and has been expanding the scope of these guidelines this year. We expect the regulator to proactively push the industry to leverage technology including new-age solutions like AI, and ML to create better and simplified solutions. We will see more niche products coming into the market in the medium-term as the overall efforts of the regulator through initiatives like state-level insurance project provide higher clarity of nuanced needs of the customers across geographies. - New players will get licensed:
While the regulator has already licensed 3 new players this year, it is expected to allow entry of more companies going forward. IRDAI has said that it is looking to issue licenses to 20 new insurers in the immediate future. Additionally, the regulator is also likely to relook the capital requirements, making it entry of new players easy. With an increased competitiveness in the market, the sector will see more innovation, improved distribution models, automation and more.
One of the awaited developments of 2024 is that the government will table the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill 2022 as it has the potential to bring another round of positive reforms and bolster growth prospects of the industry.
