16, Feb 2023
Indian Information Service probationers call on the Vice President today
New Delhi, February 16: The Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar interacted with a group of Indian Information Service (IIS) probationers at Upa-Rashtrapati Nivas today & asked them to be “real protectors of democracy and nationalism.” Praising the role of IIS officers in fighting misinformation during the Covid-19 pandemic and in addressing vaccine hesitancy, Shri Dhankhar told young officer trainees to remain ever-alert & vigilant as things get viral in a split second these days.
Shri Sunil Kumar Gupta, Secretary to the Vice President, Shri Apurva Chandra, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Sanjeev Shankar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of I&B, Prof. Sanjay Dwivedi, DG, IIMC, Shri Ashish Goyal, ADG, IIMC, Dr. Rinku Pegu, IIS officer trainees of 2020, 2021 & 2022 batches and senior officials were present.
Addressing the officers, Shri Dhankhar described India as the land of opportunities & investments and highlighted the role of effective communication in further enhancing these strengths. Describing the ‘dumping of information’ as ‘another way of invasion’, he called for bold and effective steps to neutralize it. The Vice President also underlined the need to remain alert to effectively counter the doctored narratives to run down India’s growth story. “We no longer have the luxury of delayed response,” he told young officers.
The Indian Information Service is a Central Group ‘A’ Service whose members work as media managers for the Government of India. The IIS officers, in their various capacities, act as a vital communication link between the Government and the citizens of the country by way of disseminating information and communicating various Government policies and schemes to the public at large.
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- By Rabindra
16, Feb 2023
Music licensing agency Chain Reactor jazzed up the entertainment quotient at the Hockey World Cup opening ceremony
Mumbai: February 16, 2023 – Chain Reactor Music & Media, a new-age, multi-dimensional music licensing and music marketing agency, was able to procure licenses of over 50 Bollywood songs from 10 major labels in just under 48 hours! This quick turnaround of sorting out the legalities related to these music licenses made the live broadcast of the grand opening ceremony of the Hockey World Cup a truly mesmerizing and entertaining experience for the audience.
The dazzling opening ceremony of the mega sports event was recently attended by hockey fans from all over India and overseas in Cuttack, Odisha, and featured action-packed performances by Ranveer Singh, Disha Patani, Pritam and Lisa Mishra among others, all grooving to Bollywood hits. The ceremony was aired on DD Sports, Star Sports and YouTube.
“We are overjoyed to be given this opportunity to make the Hockey World Cup a memorable experience for the audience, through what was probably, one of the fastest licensing deals ever. We were able to pull this off because of our long-term relationships with the majors. This would not have been possible without their support,” said Anurag Rao, CEO, of Chain Reactor.
Chain reactor’s long-term relationships with major record labels, collecting societies, and artists enable them to provide end-to-end music supervision and licensing solutions across TVC, live entertainment, and brand campaigns. Chain Reactor has also licensed music and content for premium brands such as Dream 11, Swiggy, Amazon Prime, A23, Hotstar, ISL, Purplle cosmetics, and Nokia amongst others.
“The demand for popular music in advertising is on an upswing. However, many brands are still unaware of ‘music rights’ and how to procure content the right way. We help bridge that gap,” added Rao.
Chain Reactor’s other areas of specialization are dialogue licensing, brand anthems, footage licensing, music supervision, and talent booking in the media and entertainment space.
16, Feb 2023
Inland Is All Set To Awaken The Adventurer In You With Their Travel Curated Apparel
16th February 2023: Travelling makes us collectors of memories—of moments that opened our eyes; of strangers who guided us on the right path; of food that took us home while being in a strange land; and so much more. These moments live on in our minds and hearts, but by preserving them on a vast canvas, we preserve a part of ourselves. That’s exactly what made Swati and Siddharth start Inland, a curated travel apparel brand that presents some of their cherished memories on exclusive garments. The founders hope that by doing so, they will inspire you to take the road less travelled and return to places that have captured your heart and soul.
It all started in 2015, when Swati and Siddharth went on their first bike ride in the mountains of Ladakh. This was the trip that changed their lives and left them enthralled and exuberant. They kept going for more rides before getting back to their fast-paced life in Mumbai. Then the pandemic came and put a pause on all their travel plans, but they found themselves yearning to go back. “Being a photographer and an artist, the idea of creating a travel-inspired apparel brand felt like the most natural expression of our love for the mountains. In literal terms, we want to carry the mountains on our sleeves!” says Swati.
The brand website showcases a collection of jackets that feature scenic stills from the founders’ travels. On one jacket, one can catch a glimpse of a bike ride in the middle of a snowy paradise, while another gives an ethereal view of a morning in Manali. Every jacket is meant to tell a story and entice the wearer to become a part of it. Furthermore, what makes these jackets so special is the little poem written inside each of them. These writings are an ode to the picturesque beauty and the mystic aura of the places shown on the outside. All the jackets are unisex, made up of 100% polyester, which makes them anti-wrinkle, and are available in sizes ‘XS’ through ‘7XL’. “We are looking forward to launching T-shirts, scarves, kaftans, skirts, shirts, and other merchandise phase wise,” says Siddharth, while stressing the fact that all products will be based on real images taken by them on their travels without any filters and are size and gender inclusive.
In terms of future plans, Inland intends to become a force to be reckoned with in the international market, owing to their first mover advantage with their distinctive prints. The brand is also passionate about building a community of like-minded travellers on social media who are enthusiastic about sharing real stories that are meant to be seen, heard, and felt. These are the stories that are sure to inspire someone to take the road less traveled, to explore the unexplored, and to create moments that will last a lifetime. This is how the thrill of travelling can be kept alive, which will eventually rub off on all those who are yet to be consumed by wanderlust.
Inland strives to rekindle the spirit of adventure within you with its travel-inspired apparel. It is meant to make your heart yearn to go places and discover yourself while you discover the wonders around you. So, get ready to be a part of a larger story and flaunt the same through Inland’s stunning garments!
16, Feb 2023
Tata Motors delivers 218 Winger veterinary vans to the Government of West Bengal
Bengaluru, 16 February 2023: Tata Motors, India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, today announced the delivery of 218 Winger veterinary vans to the Government of West Bengal. The vehicles were flagged off by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, and Hon’ble Minister of Animal Resources Development, Government of West Bengal, Shri Swapan Debnath, along with delegates from the Government of West Bengal, Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services and Tata Motors. The specially customized Tata Winger will be utilised by the Department of Animal Resource Development for animal and livestock welfare. Tata Motors emerged as the top bidder, as per the terms and conditions of the Government body and delivered the fleet of fully-built Winger veterinary vans equipped with state-of-the-art features. The e-bidding process was carried out through the Government e-Marketplace.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Vinay Pathak, Vice President, Product Line – SCV, PU and Vans, Tata Motors, said, “With Tata Motors’ firm commitment towards enabling improved animal healthcare mobility, we are elated to deliver 218 Winger veterinary vans to the Government of West Bengal. We are happy to associate with the Government’s vision of providing veterinary services across the state. Built on Tata Winger’s versatile platform, the veterinary van is engineered to facilitate smooth operations in the state.”
The Tata Winger is powered by a 2.2-liter engine with improved torque and better fuel economy. It also offers an ECO switch and Gear Shift Advisor that helps in increasing fuel efficiency. Additionally, the Winger’s independent front suspension with anti-roll bars and hydraulic shock absorbers assure a smooth ride, as does its monocoque body design, which enables car-like driving dynamics and low levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).
16, Feb 2023
Raffles Udaipur Hosts The Grand Celebration of Hardik Pandya and Natasa Stankovic’s Royal Wedding
February 2023, India– Raffles Udaipur, the ultimate destination for luxury and opulence, played host to the most spectacular event of the year as Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya and Serbian model and actress, Natasa Stankovic, tied the knot in a white wedding fit for royalty.
The couple’s high-profile nuptials drew a star-studded guest list from the worlds of sports, fashion, and entertainment, including designer Nikhil Mehra, celebrity stylist Nikita Jaisinghani, fitness guru Yasmin Karachiwala, cricketer Ishan Kishan, Dinesh Karthik, Akash Ambani and many more who gathered to celebrate the couple’s unforgettable union.
The exchange of vows was a magnificent affair, set in the expansive Polo Lawn, evoking a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication that transported the guests to a world of enchantment. The stunning Polo Lawn was the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion, and the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings only added to the grandeur of the ceremony.
The excitement of the exchange of vows continued with an electrifying after-party in the Ballroom, where guests reveled in the magical ambiance of the venue’s luxurious interiors, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The second day of the festivities is set to begin with a Mehendi Brunch in the Compass Lawn, where guests will be transported to a world of exquisite flavors and scents, creating a feast for the senses. This will be followed by the Safa Bandi and Baraat, where the couple will embark on their journey to the Great Park for their Royal Hindu Wedding, a momentous occasion steeped in tradition, grace, and grandeur.
Bringing this beautiful amalgamation to a spectacular end will be the Sangeet at night, a dazzling celebration of music and dance that will create an unforgettable experience for everyone.
“We are honored to host such an extraordinary event at Raffles Udaipur,” said General Manager Rajesh Namby. “Our team is going above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of the wedding is executed flawlessly. Raffles Udaipur’s stunning location and exceptional service, combined with the couple’s timeless elegance, has created a magnificent celebration of love that will be remembered for generations to come.”
Raffles Udaipur has quickly become known as the premier destination for elite events in India, and this wedding has only cemented its status as one of the most extraordinary venues in the world.
16, Feb 2023
Rentokil PCI Acquires Envocare Pest Control Solutions from SILA
New Delhi, India – February 16, 2023 – Rentokil PCI, the leading pest control and hygiene service provider in India and known for its expertise in pest control, has acquired Envocare Pest Control Solutions, a Mumbai-based pest control service provider through a 100% asset deal, from parent company SILA.
Envocare Pest Control Solutions is a provider of full-service environment management including general pest control services. It offers environmentally friendly services and products to customers. It caters to residential and commercial buildings and infrastructure projects. In 2016, SILA bought a majority stake in the company which it has now sold to Rentokil.
With this acquisition, Rentokil PCI expands its customer reach within the pest management sector. Rentokil PCI will further strengthen its position in the Indian pest control market as a result of this acquisition by adding leading companies in the corporate, facility management, and construction sectors as its customers. With this acquisition, RPCI demonstrates its willingness to deploy capital and acquire quality businesses in Pest & Hygiene.
Mr. David Lewis, MD of Rentokil PCI, said, “Envocare Pest Control Solutions will help expand Rentokil PCI’s industry-leading capabilities into the fast-growing market of integrated pest control services. Furthermore, Envocare specializes in eco-friendly pest management solutions, which aligns with Rentokil PCI’s goal of continuing to be the most sustainable and eco-friendly pest control company in India.”
Rushabh Vora, Co-founder & MD, SILA, said, “Over the past 6 years, we have enjoyed working with Envocare Management to get the business off the ground. We will continue to focus on the organic and inorganic growth of our core businesses. We are confident that the Envocare team will continue to excel under its new owner, Rentokil PCI, which is the market leader in the Pest Control space.”
“Rentokil PCI’s global reach and expertise will bring new products and solutions to our existing and future customers. The acquisition will facilitate long-term engagements with customers in the pest control services sector. We would like to thank the SILA team for their support in setting us up for the next leg of our journey.” said Mr. Dilip Murkute, Managing Director, of Envocare Pest Control Solutions.
Rentokil PCI is preferred for pest control by households and companies in India because of our extensive national network, highly qualified pest control specialists, and research and development (R&D) capabilities.
16, Feb 2023
3rd Dr. KCG VERGHESE TROPHY to be held at HITS From 18th & 19th February 2023
Chennai, 16th Feb 2023: The 3rd Dr. KCG Verghese Equestrian competition will be held at the Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science on the 18th and 19th of February 2023. This Equestrian competition will see the participation of over 10 teams on these two days.
The teams will compete in the following categories including DRESSAGE, SHOW JUMPING, TENT PEGGING & ARENA POLO. This event is being held in commemoration of the completion of the 10th year of the Horse Riding club of the Institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chancellor, of Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science said, “We are the only private university to have a full-fledged Stable with over 20 horses. With the support and vision of our Founder, our campus had an equestrian facility even way back in 1996. A Horse Riding Club was established in 2011 and in commemoration of 10 years of the club, we have decided to start a rolling Trophy named after our Founder. This trophy will reiterate our commitment to maintaining a fully functional stable to encourage participation in this unique sport.
Also, in addition to the extracurricular and sporting facilities offered at HITS, This club is a stellar example to provide our students an all-rounded experience including horse riding as part of their period of study at the campus.”
The 3rd Dr. KCG Verghese Trophy will see the following teams competing:
- OFFICERS TRAINING ACADEMY – Indian Army
- TN POLICE
- NCC
- CHENNAI EQUITATION CENTRE
- EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN
- CHENNAI RIDING SCHOOL
- EQUINE DREAMS
- CHENNAI POLO 2.0
- SPT TANJAVUR
- AMBUR EQUESTRIAN CLUB and HINDUSTAN UNIVERSITY
16, Feb 2023
Sona Comstar achieves 350 million Gears production milestone
Gurugram, India, February 16th, 2023: Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd. (Sona Comstar), one of the leading global providers of automotive technology solutions, has achieved the production milestone of 350 million gears since its inception. We started production of the precision forged differential gears at our plant in Gurgaon, Haryana, in 1999 and commenced production at our plant in Pune, Maharashtra, in 2005. From our plants in India, today, Sona Comstar serves seven of the world’s top-10 PV OEMs, three of the world’s top-10 CV OEMs, seven of the world’s top-10 tractor OEMs, five of the world’s top-15 EV OEMs and four of the top-15 Indian e2Ws OEMs.
As per Ricardo’s estimates, Sona Comstar’s global market share of differential gears increased to 7.2% in 2022 from 5.0% in 2020. The company continues to dominate the Indian market for differential gears with a 60‑90% market share across vehicle categories. Backed by our R&D and engineering capabilities, we are committed to innovating and supplying cutting-edge technologies to our discerning customers.
The company crossed the production milestone of 150 million gears in 2015 and achieved the 250 million mark in 2020. The next 100 million gears production milestone was achieved in three years, reflecting the company’s strong growth. This outstanding achievement is the result of our customer’s trust, our suppliers’ support, and the efforts of our people. The company expresses gratitude to its customers for their faith in its products, which encourages us to innovate and enables our growth.
Management Comment
Mr. V. Vikram Verma, CEO of Sona Comstar’s Driveline business, said, ” I congratulate my team on achieving this milestone of 350 million gears production and thank our customers for their continued trust in our products. This is a great milestone in our journey to become one of the world’s most respected and valuable auto technology companies. Engineering excellence and innovation are at our company’s core, and we always strive to innovate and solve complex engineering problems for our customers worldwide.”
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16, Feb 2023
CAMSPay receives in-principle authorization from RBI to operate as a Payment Aggregator
Chennai, February 16, 2023: CAMSPay, a panoptic payment platform specializing in solving the BFSI sector’s payment challenges has received in-principle authorization from the Reserve Bank of India to operate as a Payment Aggregator (PA).
Part of Computer Age Management Services Limited (CAMS), India’s largest registrar and transfer agent of mutual funds (a SEBI-regulated entity), CAMSPay has been an integral payments partner supporting Mutual Fund investors, Insurance policyholders, and Loan borrowers for over a decade in enabling them to move from paper-based mandate process to offering digital payment solutions. As a specialized payments solutions provider to the BFSI segment, the in-principal authorization from RBI to operate as a Payment Aggregator will widen the scope and coverage of CAMSPay.
“CAMSPay provides a wide range of payment options including Digital Payments, Payment Gateway, Cards, UPI, and Net Banking. The in-principle authorization from RBI to operate as a Payment Aggregator is a key milestone toward further strengthening our offerings in the BFSI segment. We reaffirm our commitment to making payments more seamless and secure to all stakeholders ” said Mr. Ravi Kiran, Head of New Businesses for CAMS.
Mr. Vasanth Jeyapaul, CEO of, CAMSPay said, “We are thrilled to receive the in-principle authorization to operate as a Payment Aggregator to create a much more robust and inclusive digital payment stack for the chosen merchant segments that we operate in, delivering a variety of acceptable options. The license will help us further fortify our offerings in the payments arena”.
Mutual Fund Investors use CAMSPay for their SIP and bullet investments, Insurance Policyholders for paying their policy premia, and loan borrowers for repaying their loans. With a comprehensive suite of payment options, CAMSPay is well-known for its strong commitment to compliance and security. CAMSPay works with over fifty financial institutions which include mutual funds, insurance companies, and NBFCs across India. As the first to provide UPI Autopay service to the Mutual Funds sector, CAMSPay continues to lead the market with its innovative payment solutions.
16, Feb 2023
Shell and Microsoft collaborate on digital skilling for non-IT students in vocational education institutes
New Delhi, February 16, 2023: In line with their joint commitment to empowering the workforce of tomorrow with future-ready skills, Shell and Microsoft announced a collaboration to impart digital skills to students in vocational education institutes. The project aims to enable 5,000 underserved youth across 24 government institutes with digital productivity and employability skills and prepare them for digital careers in the manufacturing and energy sectors.
Emerging technologies are changing the nature of jobs and redefining the scope of productivity in every sector. Job roles across sectors that typically did not require digital skills earlier demand foundational digital skills to adapt to new requirements. The addition of a digital curriculum to the training offered in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and polytechnics will enable the students in non-IT trades to enhance their skills for jobs.
With a goal to enable livelihood opportunities for students in ITI and polytechnic trades such as electrician, electrical engineering, fashion designing, and more, the first phase of the program will focus on creating awareness about digital employment opportunities across Gujarat, Haryana, Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Further, the initiative will support the enhancement of digital learning labs at these institutes and build the capacity of faculty members to sustain the outcomes of the program. SRF Foundation will deploy the program in each of the states and provide 240 hours of training, which includes modules on data analytics and sustainability at the workplace.
Latika Taneja, Head of Corporate Relations, Shell India, said, “Shell India is committed to supporting reskilling and upskilling programs to take employment opportunities within evolving energy and manufacturing markets, closer to the community. This collaboration between Shell and Microsoft will help create a future-ready workforce and open new avenues of learning and job opportunities for students in ITI and polytechnic colleges.”
Gunjan Patel, the Director, of Microsoft Philanthropies India, said, “In today’s digital-driven economy, it is critical to equip the youth in vocational education, especially in non-IT trades with digital skills to meet the demands of the rapidly transforming sectors. We are excited to join forces with Shell on this crucial initiative empowering skills for jobs and look forward to making a positive impact on the youth of India.”.
