26, Sep 2025
Paytm launches Gold Coins on every payment, redeemable into Digital Gold
INDIA,September 26, 2025 – Paytm, India’s trusted payments platform, has introduced Gold Coins, a first-of-its-kind rewards initiative that transforms routine payments into long-term wealth creation. With this launch, users will now earn Gold Coins worth 1% of their transaction value on every payment made through the app—whether it’s Scan & Pay, online shopping, bill payments, money transfers, or mobile recharges. These Gold Coins can be instantly converted into Paytm Digital Gold, offering users a seamless way to save and invest in one of India’s most trusted assets.
Designed to empower families and businesses alike, the program rewards double Gold Coins for payments made via Credit Card and RuPay Credit Card on UPI. Fully aligned with the Government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and the efficiency gains brought by GST, this move channels daily savings into secure, digital investments. By turning everyday transactions into a pathway for wealth building, Paytm continues to strengthen financial inclusion while promoting a culture of digital savings across India.
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- By Neel Achary
26, Sep 2025
Masterpiece Matte liquid eyeliner charcoaler
This festive season, let your eyes do the talking with Max Factor’s Masterpiece Matte Liquid Eyeliner in Charcoal – a high-performance beauty essential designed for precision, intensity, and lasting impact. Crafted for bold, smudge-proof definition, this eyeliner delivers deep charcoal pigment in a striking matte finish, perfect for creating everything from sleek wings to dramatic festival looks. Its ultra-fine tip glides effortlessly across the lid, offering seamless control and accuracy with every stroke.
Whether you’re attending grand Diwali gatherings or intimate celebrations, the Masterpiece Matte Eyeliner ensures your eye makeup stays flawless from dusk till dawn. Its long-wear formula resists fading, flaking, and smudging—giving you confidence that shines as brightly as the festivities themselves. Elevate your beauty ritual and embrace the art of precision with Max Factor’s latest must-have.
26, Sep 2025
Leading Nutritionist Debunks “Fear of Fats” Myth at Global Oil Industry Summit
Mumbai, September 26, 2025: The global edible oils industry received a wake-up call today as leading nutrition scientist Dr. James Brooks challenged decades of dietary dogma at Globoil India 2025, the world’s premier oils conference.
Dr. Brooks, a professor at Clemson University, addressed an audience of international industry leaders and policymakers, asserting that the widespread “fear of fats” dominating dietary advice since the 1950s is scientifically unfounded. He emphasized that palm oil deserves recognition as a valuable component of a healthy diet.
Tracing the origins of today’s fat phobia to Ancel Keys’ controversial ‘lipid-heart hypothesis’ and The Seven Countries Study, Dr. Brooks highlighted critical flaws in the decades-old approach that pushed the reduction of all fats—including total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol—in favor of polyunsaturated fats to reduce heart disease risk.
Citing research by Ateneo de Manila University chemist Dr. Fabian M. Dayrit and American physician Dr. Mary T. Newport (2024), Dr. Brooks explained that the hypothesis failed to distinguish between harmful industrial trans fats and natural saturated fats, assumed all saturated fats have the same effect, and narrowly focused on linoleic acid as the sole representative polyunsaturated fat. While these studies showed cholesterol reduction, they did not demonstrate a corresponding decrease in cardiovascular disease.
In his presentation titled “Malaysian Palm Oil in Today’s Market: Functional Nutrition, Flavor & the Future of Oils & Fats Technologies,” Dr. Brooks outlined palm oil’s balanced nutritional profile: approximately 50% saturated fat, 40% monounsaturated fat, and 10% polyunsaturated fat. He noted that palm oil is naturally free from trans fats and cholesterol, and rich in Vitamin E tocotrienols—potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory, cardio-protective, and neuroprotective properties. Referencing studies by Teh et al. (2018), Wang (2019), and Marangoni et al. (2017), he affirmed that palm oil has neutral to beneficial effects on blood lipid profiles, comparable to olive, sunflower, and canola oils.
Linking these findings to India, Dr. Brooks highlighted the 2024 Dietary Guidelines for India released by the Indian Council of Medical Research–National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN). The guidelines recognize fats as essential to a balanced diet and advocate moderate consumption of a variety of plant-based oils, including palm oil, to optimize health outcomes.
Expanding on global evidence, Dr. Brooks referenced long-term research such as the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), which showed that simply reducing fat intake does not lower cardiovascular risk. Follow-up of nearly 49,000 women revealed that low-fat diets failed to produce meaningful weight loss or reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes, underscoring the need to focus on fat quality and dietary balance rather than fat quantity alone.
Concluding, Dr. Brooks said, “Palm oil is often misunderstood, but science confirms it can be part of a balanced, heart-healthy diet. Its unique fatty acid profile, rich Vitamin E content, and versatility make it a vital ingredient in addressing global food and nutrition needs. India’s National Mission on Edible Oils–Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMEO) exemplifies this, promoting farmer welfare, self-reliance, and sustainability, while reinforcing palm oil’s nutritional and economic relevance.”
26, Sep 2025
MIT-WPU Student Ms Kruti Dave Triumphs at the 1st Asian International Taekwondo Competition
Mumbai/Pune, India, September 26, 2025 – MIT-World Peace University (MIT-WPU) proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of Ms Kruti Dave, a student of FY MBA (HR), who showcased exemplary talent at the 1st Asian International Taekwondo Competition held in Hyderabad.
Kruti brought immense pride to the university by securing two Gold, one Silver, and one Bronze medal across multiple categories, including fights, poomsae (structured martial arts performance), and speed events. One of her most remarkable victories came in a hard-fought final where she clinched the Gold by a single point after seven intense matches.
With a strong foundation of over eight years in martial arts, Kruti began her journey in Karate before transitioning to Taekwondo, where she has consistently excelled. Her sports journey also includes achievements at district and national levels, alongside earlier stints in hockey and cricket. Her passion, however, found its true expression in martial arts, which she now pursues with full dedication.
Balancing her MBA studies with a demanding training schedule, Kruti practices rigorously four days a week, preparing herself for greater milestones. Grateful for the guidance of her coach, and the continuous encouragement from MIT-WPU’s Sports Department, Kruti has set her sights on representing India at the Olympics.
26, Sep 2025
Secutech Automation Powers Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar’s Leap to Smart City Transformation
Maharashtra,Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, 26 September 2025:Maharashtra, is setting new benchmarks in urban governance and citizen safety with advanced smart city solutions developed and delivered by Secutech Automation. This solution integrates city-wide communication, real-time incident management, AI-powered surveillance, and drone technology, transforming how the city manages safety and traffic regulation.
Cities in India face escalating traffic management challenges, with studies showing over 60% of urban fatalities related to road safety issues. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar faces acute urban challenges that demand advanced smart city solutions. Traffic congestion on key roads such as the Nashik stretch of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar state highway has caused gridlocks lasting up to three hours affecting thousands of vehicles over just a few kilometers. Crime rates have risen with urbanization, putting pressure on the law enforcement. While they report over 95% detection rate, there is a need for stronger surveillance to support rapid response.
In response to these multifaceted challenges, Secutech’s solution integrates a citywide Public Announcement system linked to the Smart City Office and Cyber Police, enabling instant communication during traffic congestion, emergencies, and large gatherings. An Incident Management Software further empowers police with real-time alerts and one-click responses, ensuring quicker and more efficient handling of critical situations.
A network of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and Red Light Violation Detection (RLVD) cameras now monitors key entry and exit points, automating traffic violation detection, fine generation, and vehicle tracking. Parallely, drone surveillance supports real-time monitoring during sensitive events. Together, these technologies have improved traffic discipline, enhanced safety, and boosted law enforcement efficiency.
Additionally, community surveillance systems and Smart Flow services are being introduced to address citizen concerns such as waste management, reinforcing civic engagement, and service delivery.
Looking ahead, the city plans to expand with AI-driven predictive policing, wider surveillance coverage, and citizen mobile apps for real-time updates.
“What excites me most about our work in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is how technology is empowering the community. Real-time alerts, smarter traffic control, and vigilant surveillance create peace of mind and allow police to be proactive. This is the future every city deserves,” said Aditya Prabhu, CEO, Secutech. “More such integrated systems, designed to address the daily challenges faced by its people, will help India’s cities run smoother and safer. Residents will also be able to move freely and feel protected. I have always held this dream to bring ambitious city visions to life with solutions that work on the ground. Seeing these systems created by Secutech’s engineers making a tangible difference is another milestone for me in our journey to help cities embrace digital transformation for the better.”
26, Sep 2025
UNIQLO Opens First-Ever Store in Pune
Pune, September 26, 2025 — Global apparel retailer UNIQLO has officially opened its first store in Pune at The Pavillion Mall, marking its 18th store in India. The launch introduces LifeWear UNIQLO’s signature line of high-quality, functional, and thoughtfully designed clothing—to the vibrant and growing city of Pune.
Located on the ground floor of The Pavillion and spanning approximately 9,000 sq. ft., the new store offers a full lineup of men’s, women’s, kids’, and baby apparel, featuring popular innovations like AIRism, HEATTECH, Bratops, and classic denim collections.
Kenji Inoue, CFO & COO of UNIQLO India, shared: “We are excited to bring LifeWear to Pune and build on the support we’ve received through our online platform. This city has a dynamic mix of culture, innovation, and energyand we look forward to becoming part of that.“
Grand Opening Highlights:
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First 100 shoppers received a complimentary Round Ultra Mini Bag, a customer favourite, along with cappuccino and waffle vouchers from IHOP Cafe.
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Shoppers spending over a threshold received an exclusive tote bag designed by Pune-based artist Annushka Hardikar.
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Branded life-sized cubes were placed across tech parks and educational institutions—including Panchshil Business Park, Symbiosis College, and Ajeenkya DY Patil University—to connect with Pune’s thriving corporate and student communities.
The opening reflects UNIQLO’s commitment to localised experiences and its mission to offer simple, essential clothing that improves everyday life.
26, Sep 2025
Valvoline Cummins India Launches Nation’s First Full Synthetic CK4 Engine Oil for Next-Gen Diesel CVs
Hyderabad, September 2025: For more than 150 years, Valvoline has built a reputation as a pioneer in engine lubrication, from creating the world’s first trademarked engine oil brand to setting new performance benchmarks for fleets worldwide. Carrying forward this spirit of originality, Valvoline Cummins India has announced the launch of All Fleet Full Synthetic CK4, India’s first full synthetic CK4 engine oil in the Heavy Duty Engine Oil space. This industry-first innovation underscores Valvoline’s legacy of delivering cutting-edge, category-defining and industry first solutions that support the evolving demands of India’s commercial vehicle sector.
Cleaner Engines, Breakthrough Wear Protection
Specially engineered for modern heavy-duty diesel engines, the new oil provides 60% cleaner piston and 60% better wear protection compared to a market-standard oil meeting CK-4 specifications. It is suitable for all commercial vehicles meeting BSVI emission statndards and is backward compatible with BSIV, a huge relief for fleet operators enabling them to use India’s first full Synthetic oil for all engines platforms.
It’s high viscosity index ensures that the oil retains its optimal thickness even at extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, enabling smooth flow and reduced wear across a wide operating range. It’s better oxidation control ensures that the engine is protected from oxidation under extreme operating temperatures. These are essential for commercial vehicles operating in India’s harsh and varied driving conditions. With excellent low-temperature properties, the oil rapidly reaches every component of the engine, even in cold start conditions, minimizing metal-to-metal contact and providing vital protection from the moment the engine fires up. This ensures reduced friction, lower startup wear, and improved reliability during cold engine starts, a common challenge for fleets operating in North India’s colder regions.
Cost Effectiveness Meets Longevity
The lower volatity of the product resulting in reduced evaporation losses hence lower oil consumption, combined with its strong oxidation stability makes it a cost-effective and long-lasting choice for fleet operators. The robust formulation also helps the oil resist degradation over extended service intervals, ensuring long-term engine protection and cleaner engine internals.
Innovation for Modern Diesel Engines
Valvoline’s CK4 Full Synthetic is also fully compatible with modern after-treatment systems such as EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction), and DOC (Diesel Oxidation Catalyst), thanks to its low SAPS (Sulfated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulfur) formulation. It helps prevent filter blockage, maintains emissions compliance, and supports peak engine performance across new-generation and legacy commercial vehicles.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Sandeep Kalia, Managing Director, Valvoline Cummins Pvt. Ltd., said “India is a key market for Valvoline, and we remain focused on bringing advanced, reliable solutions that support its evolving commercial vehicle landscape. The launch of Valvoline CK-4 Full Synthetic, the first of its kind in the country underscores our commitment to innovation built around real-world performance. Designed for demanding operating conditions, this product offers cleaner engines, longer drain intervals, and stronger wear protection, ultimately helping fleets reduce downtime and improve overall efficiency.”
Valvoline’s Full Synthetic CK-4 is now available through Valvoline Cummins India’s nationwide distribution network, including authorized dealers, fleet workshops, and commercial vehicle service centres.
26, Sep 2025
Summit Hotels and Resorts Makes Luxury Debut with The Summit in Siliguri
Siliguri, September 26, 2025: Summit Hotels & Resorts, Eastern India’s largest hospitality chain, announced its formal entry into the luxury hotel market with the launch of its flagship brand, The Summit, in Siliguri. Scheduled to open in May 2027, this landmark property signals a bold strategic expansion for the brand, long known for its mountain-based portfolio, into the high-end urban hospitality space.
Located in the heart of Siliguri, the critical gateway to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan, Rhe Summit is conceived as Eastern India’s first true urban luxury resort. The 100-room property, with each room featuring a private balcony, will offer an elevated combination of city convenience and resort indulgence. Designed by Vivek Singh Rathore, Partner at Salient and a Forbes India “Bold Club” honoree, the resort will integrate contemporary global design standards with Eastern India’s cultural and natural heritage, making it both an architectural landmark and the brand’s corporate headquarters.
Setting a new benchmark for tier-2 hospitality, The Summit will position Siliguri as a premier destination for luxury weddings, large-scale corporate events, and high-end leisure travel. The property will feature the largest banquet facilities in Eastern India, capable of hosting up to 2,000 guests and managing 10 simultaneous events. A complete wedding ecosystem, with multiple indoor and outdoor venues, accommodation for large parties, and dedicated planning services will meet the growing demand in the region’s lucrative ₹1 crore-plus wedding market, which draws families from Bihar and Bengal. In the MICE segment, state-of-the-art conference technology will cater to the increasing corporate presence in Siliguri, offering premium meeting and event solutions previously unavailable in the city.
The lifestyle offering at The Summit will further differentiate it from existing hospitality options in the region. Guests will enjoy a diverse culinary programme spanning regional Himalayan specialties, international cuisine, rooftop dining with views of the city and mountains, and poolside grills. A dedicated wellness sanctuary will provide both traditional Himalayan therapies and contemporary beauty treatments, while a comprehensive recreational complex will introduce pickleball and squash courts, a multi-sport ground, indoor gaming zones, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Adding to Siliguri’s nightlife, the resort will house the city’s first 40-foot-high nightclub and lounge, offering panoramic views, international DJs, live entertainment, and premium mixology.
True to Summit’s commitment to responsible tourism, The Summit is targeting green building certifications, will create over 300 local jobs, and will work with local artisans and suppliers to bring authentic regional elements into its design and guest experience. The resort will also integrate water conservation measures and renewable energy solutions, ensuring that sustainability is embedded alongside luxury.
“This resort is our love letter to Siliguri and the entire region,” said Sumit Mitruka, CEO & Founder, Summit Hotels & Resorts. “For 15 years, we’ve welcomed guests to our mountain properties. Now, we’re bringing that same warmth and world-class hospitality to the city that’s been our home. The Summit is our bold step into the luxury market, a destination that will set new benchmarks for Eastern India and put Siliguri firmly on the national hospitality map.”
Industry observers have already noted the transformation of Siliguri into a sought-after wedding and events hub, with leading hotel brands eyeing entry into the market. While others are still in the planning stages, The Summit is already under development, making Summit Hotels & Resorts the first mover in addressing the critical gap for large, luxury event venues in Eastern India. The hotel represents the group’s largest single investment to date and forms a cornerstone of its vision to expand to 50 properties by 2030.
26, Sep 2025
PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for Avaada Group’s 2500 MWh India’s Largest Storage Project
Rajasthan, September 26, 2025: Avaada Group, a diversified energy conglomerate, today marked a defining moment in the nation’s clean energy journey. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji laid the foundation stone of Avaada’s 1560 MWp Solar plus 2500 MWh Storage (BESS) project at Pugal and also inaugurated Avaada’s 200 MW (282 MWp) solar power project at Shri Dungargarh, Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Together, these two projects represent a combined investment of more than INR9,200 crore in Rajasthan’s renewable energy sector, reinforcing the State’s leadership as the hub of India’s green energy revolution.
Project Details
The 200 MW (282 MWp) Shri Dungargarh Solar Project spread over 777 acres in Bikaner will supply power to Rajasthan discoms thereby ensuring availability of cleaner and affordable power supply to the people of the State. It will be powered by Avaada Electro’s ALMM-certified, Make in India TOPCon N-Type bifacial solar PV modules, reflecting a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing and technological innovation.
The 1560 MWp Solar plus 2500 MWh BESS Project at Pugal in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan, spread over 4000 acres in Pugal. The project, once complete, will aid in delivering solar power beyond solar hours by storing it in the Battery Energy Storage (BESS). It will enhance grid reliability and deliver firm green power. The plant will host BESS capacity installation with the state-of-the-art technology to be powered by Avaada Electro’s ALMM certified, Make in India TOPCon N-Type bifacial solar PV modules.
Both the projects are estimated to generate over 1600 green jobs in the State. The projects will cut down more than 20 lakh tons of CO₂ emissions annually and help conserve approximately 600 lakh litres of water annually through robotic cleaning.
On the occasion, Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India said, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India has emerged as a global frontrunner in clean energy transition. The foundation stone of Avaada Group’s 1,560 MWp Solar Project integrated with a 2,500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Bikaner marks a historic milestone in this journey. This project, the largest BESS in India till date, will deliver round-the-clock green power, enhance grid resilience, and set new benchmarks for the nation’s energy security.”
Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma ji, said, “I am delighted to see the MoU signed during Rising Rajasthan being converted into an operational project in less than a year. Many more projects of Avaada Group are moving into construction. We thank Avaada for investing in Rajasthan and creating jobs for our people.”
Mr. Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, said: “It is an honour to have the Hon’ble Prime Minister bless the foundation stone laying and inauguration of Avaada’s renewable energy projects. These projects are more than investments in megawatts – they are investments in India’s green future. Rajasthan is the beating heart of Avaada’s journey, and we are committed to empowering communities, creating livelihoods, and shaping a sustainable, self-reliant nation.”
Avaada has already commissioned 2.2 GW of renewable capacity in Rajasthan. The company’s operational portfolio stands at approximately 5.7 GWp across India.
These projects embody Avaada’s commitment to India’s goals of energy independence, decarbonisation, and sustainable growth, while delivering tangible socio-economic benefits for the people of Rajasthan.
26, Sep 2025
Zydus Foundation and GMC Partner to Transform Urban Spaces with Zydus GMC Garden at Khoraj
Zydus Foundation and Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC) sign MoU for transformation of urban public spaces, the Zydus GMC Garden at Khoraj
Gandhinagar, September 25, 2025: In a joint effort to boost sustainable urban development and community wellness, Zydus Foundation and Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the transformation and maintenance of the Khoraj public park at Gandhinagar – Zydus GMC Garden. The park covers an area of 55,000 sq. m.
The MoU was formally signed by Commissioner Shri J. N. Vaghela (IAS), GMC and Ms. Meha Patel, Vice Chairperson of Zydus Foundation. The event was graced by Shrimati Miraben Patel, Mayor, GMC. Shri Gaurangbhai Vyas, Standing Committee Chairman, GMC, Shri Anilsinh Vaghela, Garden Samiti Chairman Shrimati Sonaliben Patel, and Shri B.R, Ahir, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, GMC were also present on the occasion.
Mayor, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, Shrimati Miraben Patel commended Zydus and GMC for their collaborative initiative in promoting holistic wellness and a greener urban future and wished them all success in this endeavour.
The Municipal Commissioner, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, Shri J. N. Vaghela appreciated Zydus’ involvement in the project and also lauded their attention to specific details in ensuring that the park is equipped with amenities that support both health and environmental goals.
Speaking on the new initiative, Ms. Meha Patel, Vice Chairperson, Zydus Foundation, said, “Zydus is dedicated to life and an important part of this is community wellness. Together with GMC we are re-creating a space that nurtures wellness, strengthens community bonds, and reaffirms our commitment to building healthier and happier communities. The space has been designed with a lot of unique features like the first dedicated cycling track within a public park. Additional amenities include age-specific play areas, a yoga deck for meditation, and sculptures created by local artists to promote regional talent.”
Shri Gaurang Vyas, Chairman of the Standing Committee, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, expressed confidence in the initiative’s impact, describing it as both highly effective and innovative. He added that it would stand as a model Public–Private Partnership (PPP) for the Gandhinagar region.
Under this MoU, Zydus Foundation through Zydus CSR initiatives, will undertake the transformation and maintenance of the park for seven years, transforming it into a vibrant, ecofriendly and inclusive space that supports community wellness and promotes greener urban spaces.
