Category Archives: Business

Bank of India Q3FY25 Net Profit Jumps 35 Percent to Rs 2,517 Cr

Chandigarh, 28th January 2025: Bank of India announced its results for the quarter Q3 FY25. Net Profit improved by 35% YoY and stood at Rs.2,517 Cr for Q3FY25 against Rs.1,870 Cr in Q3FY24. On a sequential basis, Net Profit improved by 6 % from Rs.2,374 Cr in Q2FY25.

On the Asset quality front, Net NPA declined by 29.07% YoY from Rs.7,627 Cr in Dec’23 to Rs.5,410 Cr in Dec’24. Global Business increased by 13.62% YoY from Rs.12,72,887 Cr in Dec’23 to Rs.14,46,295 Cr in Dec’24 reporting a YTD growth of 9.28%.

Net Interest Income (NII) increased by 11% YoY and stood at Rs.6,070 Cr for Q3FY25 against Rs.5,463 Cr for Q3FY24 and Rs.5,986 Cr in Q2FY25. As of 31.12.2024, the Bank’s total Capital Adequacy Ratio (CRAR) was at 16.00% against 16.06% as of 31.12.2023.

Retail Credit grew by 21.22% YoY to Rs.1,27,825 Cr in Dec’24. (YTD Growth: 14.66%). Agriculture Credit grew by 18.46% YoY to Rs.95,173 Cr in Dec’24. MSME Credit grew by 16.36% YoY to Rs.89,134 Cr in Dec’24.

Priority Sector Advances increased by 16.63% YOY and achieved 45.27% of ANBC as on Dec’24. Agricultural advances achieved 21.19% of ANBC. Advances to Small & Marginal Farmers achieved 11.76% of ANBC in Dec’24 against regulatory norm of 10%. Advances to Weaker Sections achieved 14.11% of ANBC in Dec’24 against regulatory norm of 12%.

Bank has opened 2.23 Lakh new PMJDY accounts during Q3-FY’25 and 10.49 lakh new accounts during 9 Months ended FY’25.

As on 31st Dec’24, the Bank has 5202 number of Domestic branches.

Jaideep Ahlawat’s Endearing Reply to Amul’s Paatal Lok 2 Topical Has Fans Smiling

Prime Video’s Paatal Lok has won the hearts of viewers worldwide, with its gritty narrative and unforgettable characters leaving audiences hooked. As fans celebrate the show’s gripping storytelling, Amul has joined the bandwagon with their latest topical that adds a buttery twist to the hype.

The poster cheekily asks, “Iske Ahlaawa Aur Kya?”, perfectly summing up the show’s irresistible charm. The tagline, Amul: Lok-priya Snack, playfully ties the tribute to the cult hit’s massive popularity.

Even Jaideep Ahlawat, who plays the unforgettable Hathiram Chaudhary, couldn’t resist the love. Sharing the topical on Instagram, he quipped, “Itna bhi maska nahi lagana tha Hathi Ram ko, Amul India, nahi toh aur jyada mota ho jaayega!” His heartfelt caption, “I melted like makhan looking at this! Thank you for the love, this one’s special,” reflects the widespread adoration for the show and Amul’s tribute.

Prime Video’s Paatal Lok continues to create waves, blending sharp social commentary with edge-of-the-seat drama. With Amul now joining the celebration, the show’s impact has extended beyond screens, making Paatal Lok a phenomenon in the world of Indian entertainment.

Directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware, and written, created, and executively produced by Sudip Sharma, the series is produced under the banner of Clean Slate Filmz Production and Eunoia Films. This season boasts a stellar cast, featuring Jaideep Ahlawat, Ishwak Singh, Tillotama Shome, and Gul Panag in the lead roles. Paatal Lok Season 2 is streaming now exclusively on Prime Video in India and more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Reuniting Families at Purna Maha Kumbh: DSP Mutual Fund, Dentsu, and Falco Robotics Collaborate on Child Safety Initiative

Mumbai, 27th January 2025: The Purna Maha Kumbh, a rare and sacred Hindu festival, occurs once every 144 years, following 12 cycles of the Maha Kumbh. This year, it is expected to draw a record 400 million devotees, solidifying its position as the largest human gathering on Earth. However, amidst this grand celebration, a pressing concern emerges: the alarming number of missing children. Over 250,000 individuals, many of whom were children, have vanished during past events, facing exploitation or permanent family separation.

In response to this unfortunate but very real problem, DSP Mutual Fund has partnered with Dentsu Creative Webchutney, in association with Falco Robotics, to launch Garuda Rakshak – a groundbreaking offline, drone-based search-and-rescue solution designed to overcome network congestion challenges and swiftly reunite lost children with their families. Derived from the mythological Garuda, a divine bird embodying protection and vigilance, Garuda Rakshak serves as a guardian in the sky.

Based on 1970s marine navigation technology, it utilises low-frequency radio bands for long-range communication and precision satellite tracking, all while requiring minimal infrastructure.

If a child goes missing, guardians can simply tap their ID bands at the Lost and Found Centre to activate the Garuda Rakshak system. The drone, armed with real-time geo-data from the child’s wristband, springs into action, pinpointing the child’s location within minutes. It deploys an extendable colour marker high in the sky, cutting through the chaos to visually guide rescuers, while simultaneously transmitting the child’s details to the on-ground rescue team. This seamless, revolutionary solution ensures a fast, reliable rescue, even in the most chaotic situations.

Abhik Sanyal, Head of Marketing, DSP Asset Managers, said, “At DSP Mutual Fund, we believe that investing goes beyond chasing monetary gains—it’s about bettering lives, communities, and inspiring hope. Backing an idea like Garuda Rakshak truly resonates with our belief that the most meaningful solutions to real problems of today can sometimes be found by those willing to dip into the wisdom of the past. For us, this initiative of hope came straight from the heart, while still embodying, perhaps even elevating, our commitment to DSP’s ‘Invest for Good’ philosophy. Because the most meaningful returns are found in the safety, love, and smiles we can help bring back to the world.”

Gurbaksh Singh, Chief Innovation Officer, India, Dentsu Creative, added, “In an era dominated by IoTs, we’ve taken a step back to draw inspiration from the past and fused it with new-age drone automation that not only saves lives but also restores hope and reassurance to families in their most vulnerable moments. The project showcases the transformative power of technology when driven by human compassion and a relentless pursuit of a safer, more caring world.”

Vishal Dixit, CEO, Falco Robotics, commented, “The integration of drone technology with Garuda Rakshak’s offline navigation system has resulted in a truly pioneering solution, uniquely equipped to handle the complexities of such extraordinary, high-density events. We’re excited to see the difference it makes.”

SWITCH Mobility Launches SWITCH IeV8 eLCV

Shri H. D. Kumaraswamy, Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, unveils the SWITCH IeV8, an electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV) designed for mid-mile logistics at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025

Chandigarh, 25 January 2025: SWITCH Mobility Ltd, a part of the Hinduja Group, has unveiled the SWITCH IeV8, a revolutionary electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV) in the 7.2T category catering to mid-mile logistics. Designed with sustainability and operational efficiency at its core, the SWITCH IeV8 is set to transform the logistics sector in India.

The SWITCH IeV8, a robust addition to SWITCH Mobility’s eLCV portfolio is engineered for optimal performance, durability, and sustainability in cargo transportation. Featuring cutting-edge advanced lithium battery chemistry, the IeV8 delivers an impressive range of 250 km on a single charge. Its versatile design accommodates up to 830 cubic feet of container space, making it ideal for diverse logistics needs. With a top speed of 80 km/h and fast-charging capabilities, it ensures swift and uninterrupted operations, meeting the demands of modern businesses.

With features like Electro-Hydraulic power steering (EHPS) for effortless maneuverability, a driver-centric AC cabin, tiltable steering, and sliding & reclining seats, the SWITCH IeV8 is crafted to deliver exceptional comfort and ergonomic excellence.

On the occasion, Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, of SWITCH Mobility, said, “The unveil of the SWITCH IeV8 represents our steadfast commitment to pioneering clean transportation solutions. This vehicle embodies our vision of providing innovative and environmentally conscious solutions that not only meet the demands of modern logistics but also contribute significantly to a greener future. With the IeV8, SWITCH Mobility reaffirms its position as a leader in innovation and eco-conscious development within the electric mobility sector.”

Mr. Mahesh Babu, Chief Executive Officer, SWITCH Mobility, added, “The SWITCH IeV8 is designed to address the increasing demand for efficient, reliable, and sustainable solutions in the mid-mile logistics segment. With a robust payload capacity up to 4 Ton and container compatibility of up to 830 cubic feet, the IeV8 is tailored to meet the varied needs of modern logistics operations. Its advanced lithium battery chemistry delivers a range of 250 km per charge, complemented by fast-charging capabilities that minimize downtime and maximize operational efficiency. Built with SWITCH Mobility’s advanced EV architecture, the vehicle delivers superior operational performance resulting in lowest total cost of ownership

The SWITCH IeV8 is designed to deliver superior handling, durability, and driver comfort. With features like Electro-Hydraulic power steering (EHPS) for effortless maneuverability, a driver-centric AC cabin, tiltable power steering, and sliding & reclining seats, it ensures a comfortable and fatigue-free driving experience even during long hauls. These thoughtful additions prioritize driver well-being, enhancing safety and productivity on every journey.”

Powered by SWITCH iON, our proprietary telematics system, the SWITCH IeV8 offers real-time vehicle health monitoring, ITMS, and efficient fleet management, among over 50 advanced features.

Designed for both performance and durability, the SWITCH IeV8 is an innovative vehicle that empowers businesses to lower operational costs while minimizing their carbon footprint. With the SWITCH IeV8, SWITCH Mobility is all set to create a transformative impact on India’s logistics sector by offering a solution that seamlessly combines performance, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.

Dabur Chyawanprash Focuses on Wellness in Mysore through Dedicated CSR Initiative

Mysore – 27 January 2025 : Winter is one of the most awaited seasons in India, but it may also bring a plethora of diseases like Cold, Cough, and Respiratory problems to name a few; which are most prevalent in this season and usually occur due to low immunity. Chyawanprash is an around 3000-year-old & well-known Ayurvedic formulation that is used for boosting immunity and helps provide protection against common day-to-day infections like cough and cold. Dabur Chyawanprash contains many ‘Rasayana’ herbs which help in the prevention of a variety of infections through its immunomodulatory effects.

As part of its commitment to safeguard the health of future generations, Dabur Chyawanprash announced the launch of a mega awareness initiative aimed at securing the health of underprivileged kids across the country. Under this initiative, Dabur Chyawanprash, along with a renowned doctor, will conduct Immunity awareness sessions to educate children about the need to build a stronger immune system to fight against illnesses due to the changing season, common bacteria, and viruses.

The drive was flagged off in Mysore with a special session conducted for more than 150 kids from GHPS Gungral Chhatra llawala Hobli in Mysore With the esteemed Head Mistress, Mrs. Susheela, and Mr. Rajeev John, Marketing Head, Dabur India Ltd, Dinesh Kumar Dabur India Ltd & teachers from school attendance. The session was aimed at creating awareness among kids to fight illness in winter. The kids were also educated on ways to boost their immunity through basic hygiene and a nutritious diet.

Speaking on the occasion, Dabur India Ltd, General Manager Marketing, Mr. Amit Garg said, “Dabur Chyawanprash has been committed to helping every Indian achieve the strongest immunity for over 100 years. This initiative is a leap forward towards this commitment. We are concerned about the cold wave that claims so many lives every year. Through this initiative, we will attempt to reach out to provide protection to underprivileged kids by highlighting the importance of Immunity besides providing Chyawanprash to these kids.”

Dr. Parmeshwar Arora, M.D. (Ayurveda), B.H.U, said, “During cycles of seasonal change, there is a sudden temperature variation, which leads to illnesses like cough, cold & flu. Enhancing immunity is an effective way to fight illnesses like cold, cough, respiratory problems, etc. Dabur Chyawanprash is an effective solution to boost one’s immunity needs through changing weather cycles.”

Under this campaign, Dabur Chyawanprash has joined hands with leading NGOs from 22 cities in India i.e. Agra, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Udaipur, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Siliguri, Patna, Gaya, Indore, Raipur, Pune, Aurangabad, Ranchi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Mysore, Nasik, Nagpur, Gwalior, and Bhopal.

Celebrating Road Safety Month, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Concludes 24-Hour Hackathon in Delhi

Bangalore, 27th January 2025: As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering road safety innovation and celebrating ‘Road Safety Month’ (January 18 – February 17, 2025), Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) proudly announced the successful conclusion of the 24-hour Toyota Hackathon at GL Bajaj Institute, Greater Noida, Delhi. The event, graced by Chief Guest Mr Ashok Kumar IPS , Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Greater Noida UP, Guest of Honour Mr RR Meena Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India and TKM’s senior leadership, including Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head & Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Governance, provided an engaging platform for young innovators to develop practical and implementable solutions to critical road safety challenges.

The two-day hackathon was further enriched by expert mentorship from faculty at GL Bajaj Institute and Delhi Technology University. These mentors guided participants in refining their ideas and transforming them into actionable solutions, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to nurturing future changemakers.

Education and Road Safety are core pillars of TKM’s CSR initiatives. The Toyota Hackathon is a flagship component of its broader Road Safety Initiative, aimed at achieving zero traffic fatalities through a comprehensive safety framework. This reflects Toyota’s holistic philosophy of prioritizing safety—not only through secure vehicle manufacturing but also by fostering awareness and driving behavioural change within communities. The hackathon addressed key themes such as Road Safety Awareness and Education, School Zone Safety, Traffic Management, and IoT Integration in Road Safety. The goal was to encourage digital and policy-driven solutions that can significantly reduce accidents and save lives.

India records the highest number of annual road crash fatalities globally. Each year, the country witnesses over 1,50,000 fatalities due to road accidents, with road traffic injuries being the leading cause of death for people aged 5-29 years. Recognizing this crisis, TKM launched the Toyota Hackathon in 2018 to integrate road safety into school and college curriculums. By encouraging students to become critical thinkers and solution developers, the initiative empowers young minds to address contemporary road safety challenges. This platform not only unlocks the potential of young innovators but also develops them into ‘Change Agents’—pioneering positive behavioural shifts in their communities and making meaningful contributions to road safety.

The Delhi leg of the Toyota Hackathon 2025 saw participation from over 400 students across grades 9 to 11, representing nearly 100 schools. Participants followed a structured five-phase journey:

1. Team Selection & Idea Submission
2. Boot Camp Shortlisting
3. Final 24-Hour Hackathon
4. Incubation Support for City Winners

Out of 100 initial teams, 31 advanced to post-boot camp, 10 teams competed in the final hackathon, out of which 3 emerged as winners. These winning teams will receive ongoing incubation support to bring their solutions to fruition.

Following the successful event in Delhi, the Toyota Hackathon 2025 will continue in Mumbai on January 29 and Bangalore on February 14. For the 2024-25 academic year, TKM plans to expand the initiative to 300 institutions across these cities, with over 400 innovative concepts already submitted. Nearly 75 teams are expected to present functional prototypes, with top teams receiving incubation support. This initiative not only amplifies Toyota’s vision for a safer future but also inspires the next generation to leverage their knowledge and creativity in addressing critical societal challenges.

Present at the occasion, Mr Ashok Kumar IPS, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Greater Noida UP said, “The Toyota Hackathon is more than a competition—it is a movement towards creating a culture of safety and responsibility among young minds. Engaging students at this formative stage is key to instilling values of innovation and accountability. The ingenuity displayed here today is a testament to what our youth can achieve when given the right platform and support. I commend Toyota Kirloskar Motor for spearheading this impactful initiative and look forward to seeing these ideas transform into tangible solutions that benefit our communities.”

Sharing his thoughts, Guest of Honour Mr RR Meena Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India said, “The Toyota Hackathon is an example of how innovation and youth engagement can come together to address critical challenges like road safety. Involving young minds in this dialogue at such an early stage not only nurtures their creativity but also instils a sense of ownership and accountability toward societal well-being. Through this initiative, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has demonstrated the transformative power of collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. The solutions presented today showcase the immense potential of the students to think beyond the conventional, creating impactful ideas that can lead to lasting change. It is inspiring to see the commitment and passion displayed by these young innovators, and I am confident that their efforts will contribute significantly to building safer and more secure communities for generations to come. Government of India is doing lot of activities in creating road safety awareness. Today, I would also like to urge the students to login to Mera Yuva Bharat Portal and take part in various road safety activities such as road safety pledge, quiz, slogan, poster making etc.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head & Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, safety is not just an attribute of our vehicles—it is a fundamental value embedded in our philosophy. The Toyota Hackathon exemplifies our dedication to empowering the youth to address pressing challenges like road safety. The passion, creativity, and technical acumen demonstrated by these students have been truly inspiring. Their solutions go beyond immediate impact, shaping a sustainable future with safer roads for all. We are proud to support their journey from innovative concepts to real-world implementation, furthering our vision for a safer and more responsible society.”

Tourism to Create 24M Jobs in Tier 2 & 3 Cities by 2033

India, one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, has put tourism at the center of its growth drivers in the services sector. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), India’s Travel & Tourism GDP is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 7.1% over the next decade. Currently, the tourism and hospitality sector contributes approximately 8% of India’s total employment. This momentum is expected to accelerate, with sectoral spending projected to rise by 1.2 times by 2034, emphasizing the need for a highly skilled workforce to meet future demands.

While metropolitan hubs have traditionally driven India’s tourism economy, Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are emerging as key contributors. Travelers are increasingly seeking unexplored destinations, fueled by the rise of staycations post-pandemic, improved connectivity, and a growing inclination toward religious tourism. The rapid development of these smaller cities is expected to generate 24 million talent opportunities in Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets by 2033, with a balanced workforce comprising 75% male and 25% female talent.

Religious tourism, in particular, has been a significant driver of growth, gaining momentum year after year. The sector is expected to generate $59 billion in revenue by 2028 and create a significant number of temporary and permanent jobs by 2030. The increasing reliance on gig and temporary workers is providing flexible employment opportunities, especially during peak seasons. For instance, Maha Kumbh 2025 is anticipated to generate an estimated 1.2 Million gig and temporary jobs across various roles, including hotel staff, tour guides, and travel coordinators, to manage the massive influx of visitors. Religious tourism hubs like Ayodhya, Ujjain, Badrinath, Varanasi, Haridwar, Mathura, Tirupati, Amritsar, and Bodhgaya are spearheading this growth.

Beyond religious tourism, cities like Lucknow, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kochi, Rishikesh, Ahmedabad, Shillong, Guwahati, and Agra are witnessing remarkable growth due to their cultural significance and enhanced connectivity. Trends like destination weddings, adventure sports tourism, ecotourism, cultural tourism, and rural tourism are further propelling these destinations. This diversification is creating demand for a wide range of job profiles in Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets, such as Sales and Business Development Professionals (26%), Travel Consultants (22%), Tour Guides (15%), Digital Marketers (12%), Customer-Service Executives (15%), Logistics Operators (10%).

To sustain this growth and meet future workforce demands, focus on the upcoming budget will also be critical. Incentives that promote training for tour guides, hotel staff, logistics operators, and local artisans can strengthen the sector’s foundation. Upskilling initiatives focused on domestic tourism roles, such as customer-service executives, naturalists, and paragliding tandem pilots, can further enhance employability and elevate the tourism experience for travellers. These training and upskilling initiatives can boost the likelihood of securing permanent and gig jobs in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities by 2 to 3 times.

Sachin Alug, CEO, NLB Services commented “India’s tourism sector holds immense potential to foster employment, drive inclusive economic growth, and unlock the capabilities of smaller cities. By capitalizing on the growth of Tier 2 and Tier 3 destinations, leveraging emerging trends, and fostering a skilled workforce, the sector is poised to play a transformative role in the nation’s economic and social progress.”

Hyderabad to witness a three-day music and dance extravaganza – Ramayana Kalpavrksam

Hyderabad, 28th January 2025: The third edition of the iconic 3-day music and dance extravaganza, ‘Ramayana Kalpavrksam’, conceived and curated by Hyderabad-based acclaimed dancer Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant, a celebrated artist and cultural ambassador, will be hosted from 31st January 2025 to 2nd February 2025, at the CCRT campus, Hyderabad. The signature festival and India’s finest talents in classical arts in a unique confluence of art, tradition, and scholarship is being presented by Shankarananda Kalakshetra and Natyarambha, in collaboration with Brhat. The festival is to be inaugurated by Chief Guest Sri Tejasvi Surya, Member of Parliament.

According to Ananda the creator of the annual festival, Ramayana Kalpavrksam brings Sri Rama Chetana back into our lives, a 3-day immersion into all things Rama through the prism of top-class performances, of dance, music, and Harikatha, through stars and doyens in the field, inspiring and scholarly talks, by renowned and young scholars, learning workshops on Indic knowledge, exhibitions, crafts and more.

The highlights performances in the evening segment, ‘Ramarasa’ promises to be a mesmerizing celebration of art and devotion, featuring an array of stellar performances from the worlds of Carnatic music, classical dance, and storytelling, with the renowned Carnatic duo Ranjani-Gayatri, premiering their much-anticipated musical feature, ‘RAMA by RaGa’; Vishaka Hari, the Harikatha legend, will enchant the audience with ‘Ramayana: The Life-Giving Tree’; a breathtaking presentation of Rukmini Devi Arundale’s iconic dance choreography, ‘Sabari Moksham,’ brought to life by the Kalakshetra Foundation; the rare and vibrant Manipuri Raas, Pung and Dhol Cholam, performed by the JN Manipuri Dance Academy, Imphal, transporting audiences to the cultural heart of Manipur and a soulful invocation, ‘Takkuvemimanaku,’ performed by the Shankarananda Kalakshetra ensemble. Each performance is a testament to the timeless legacy of Indian art forms, weaving together music, dance, and storytelling in an unforgettable homage to Lord Rama.

The morning sessions, ‘Ramamrita’ brings together six remarkable and scholarly speakers, each offering a unique perspective on the timeless epic of the Ramayana. Prof. Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of Central Sanskrit University, renowned for his deep understanding of Sanskrit literature and philosophy; Yashodeep Deodhar, creator of the widely popular 21Notes, sharing innovative insights into the Ramayana; Ami Ganatra, acclaimed author of bestselling books on the Ramayana, known for her fresh and thought-provoking interpretations; Dr. Anupama Kylash, a celebrated dance scholar, illuminating the Ramayana through the lens of classical Indian dance and culture; Dr. DK Hari and Dr. DK Hema, creators of the Bharat Gyan series, bringing their extensive research on India’s ancient wisdom and the Ramayana to life and Vikram Sridhar, a gifted young storyteller, weaving the magic of the Ramayana with his compelling narratives. This exceptional lineup promises to delve into the myriad facets of the Ramayana, blending scholarship, creativity, and storytelling to inspire and enlighten.

As part of the vibrant three-day festival, an array of engaging learning workshops and unique experiences await participants, in ‘Kala Charan’: a Sanskrit Learning Workshop, led by Udaya Shreyas of the Sanskrit Channel, offering an immersive dive into the beauty and essence of Sanskrit. A hands-on fabric painting session will have the young and talented artist Anusha Namburi, exploring the art of adorning fabric with creativity and a traditional Cheriyal Painting art form is brought to life by acclaimed Cheriyal artist Madhu Merugoju. The fest will also have a captivating display of vintage lithographs from the treasured collection of Pratima Sagar and MC Mohan, showcasing the divine in Indian households, ‘Framing Divinity – Devas in Our Homes’ as well as ‘Kala Grama’, a bustling bazaar celebrating the craftsmanship of talented artisans, offering a glimpse into India’s rich heritage and artistry, Ramayana Kalpavrksam promises to captivate attendees and leave them enriched by India’s timeless traditions.

Unity in Diversity: The Fern Hotels & Resorts Celebrates Republic Day with Vibrant Celebrations

Mumbai, January 24, 2025: This Republic Day, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, invites guests to celebrate the nation’s spirit of unity, diversity, and shared heritage.

With vibrant tricolour-themed decorations, traditional music and dance performances and specially curated menus, select properties are set to offer unique experiences to honour India’s 76th Republic Day. Guests can enjoy culinary delights such as tricolour sandwiches, dumplings, and idlis, complemented by vibrant desserts and mocktails inspired by the Indian flag, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Through these specially curated offerings, The Fern Hotels & Resorts aims to create an experience that brings our guests closer to the heart of India and the ideals that make our nation truly great.

Celebrate the essence of India with The Fern Hotels & Resorts, where every detail reflects the pride and diversity of our great nation.

Barracuda Research Uncovers Tycoon 2FA Phishing Service Update to Prevent Security Inspection

India, January 24, 2025: Barracuda’s threat analysts have identified the widely used Tycoon 2FA Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS) has been updated with a range of tactics designed to make it harder for security tools to confirm its malicious intent and inspect its webpages, according to a new research report. The findings underscore how PhaaS developers are investing significant resources into building advanced and evasive toolsets and templates to enable cyber attackers to quickly deploy complex and targeted phishing campaigns.

According to Barracuda threat analysts, around 30% of the credential attacks seen in 2024 made use of PhaaS and this is expected to rise to 50% in 2025.

Tycoon 2FA allows attackers to intercept and bypass two factor authentication (2FA) security measures by collecting and using Microsoft 365 session cookies. In early November 2024, Barracuda threat analysts noted a rise in the use of a new version of Tycoon 2FA that is stealthier than earlier editions and makes use of a range of sophisticated tactics to obstruct detection and analysis.

These tactics include:

● The use of legitimate — possibly compromised — email accounts to launch attacks

● Specially crafted source code to obstruct web page analysis

● Measures to block the use of automated security scripts and penetration-testing tools

● Listening for keystrokes that suggest web inspection and then blocking further activity

● Disabling the right-click menu that could reveal the web pages’ true intent

● Blocking users from copying meaningful text from the webpage for offline analysis

“Phishing has evolved into a complex and sophisticated attack vector that is increasingly well resourced,” said Deerendra Prasad, Associate Threat Analyst at Barracuda. “PhaaS groups play a key role in this new ecosystem, and we expect their role to increase. We have observed Tycoon 2FA used in numerous phishing campaigns over the past months and expect cyber attackers to continue to refine their methods to circumvent traditional security measures and thwart deeper analysis. It is essential to have agile and innovative multilayered defense strategies in place and foster a strong security culture to stay ahead of this ever-evolving threat.”