Category Archives: Business

MAGGI Crafts New ‘Happy Bowl’ with Love: Delightful Noodles for young ones

Bengaluru, 16th September 2024: Continuing with its spirit of culinary innovation, MAGGI has unveiled the Happy Bowl. The new product combines irresistible taste with goodness of atta, and is a source of protein, calcium, vitamin A, and fiber. Available in two delightful flavours, ‘Yummy Masala’ and ‘Twisty Tomato,’ this new offering is crafted to delight young palates while embodying MAGGI’s commitment to delivering great taste through innovation.

Mr. Rajat Jain, Director, Foods Business at Nestlé India, shared his enthusiasm for the new product and said, “At MAGGI, we are deeply passionate about the food we create, and MAGGI Happy Bowl holds a truly special place in our hearts. It promises to continue MAGGI’s legacy of creating beloved products for everyone in the family and provide them with more options. MAGGI Happy Bowl is our offering for the kids and a gift to moms, offering joyful simplicity in every bite”

Supporting the launch, MAGGI has rolled out a comprehensive marketing campaign that spans TV, digital media, print, and outdoor advertising across major cities. The campaign highlights the dual appeal of great taste and goodness, aiming to make the Happy Bowl a new favorite at family tables.

Zupee Enters into Strategic Partnership with ONDC to Boost User Acquisition and Thriving Gaming Community

Gurugram, India – 16th September, 2024 – In its bid to promote Indian board games , Zupee, India’s largest skill-based Ludo platform, has entered into an agreement with the Government-backed e-commerce platform, ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) to make skill-based games from Zupee more accessible to the masses.

Under the agreement, Zupee is registered as a Seller application on the platform, with the pioneering gaming company offering its popular game of Ludo, through ONDC.

Speaking about the partnership, Dilsher Singh Malhi, Founder & CEO – Zupee, said, “We are delighted to partner with ONDC and be listed on the platform. This collaboration strengthens our efforts to bring the joy of playing culturally relevant Indian games, responsibly, to a larger audience. We are excited to test the potential of the partnership for both Zupee and ONDC users.”

The partnership will also help the leading game developer to build trust around online gaming amidst existing and future gamers.

T Koshy, MD & CEO – ONDC said, “ONDC has been committed to delivering a range of products and services through a democratized digital commerce and a neutral ecosystem for sellers. The integration of Zupee, one of the largest skill-based online gaming companies in India, on ONDC Network will be a critical step to strengthen the open and diverse digital marketplace. Zupee’s integration on ONDC Network will not only facilitate offering of value entertainment to larger users in India but also allow them to access a wider range of products and services at a right price from a single, unified platform.”

In conclusion, this partnership will empower ONDC and Zupee to expand their reach, accelerate customer acquisition, and provide even greater value to their growing user base.

Radisson Blu Guwahati announces the launch of ‘Meetha by Radisson Hotels’

Guwahati, 13th September,2024 – Radisson Blu Guwahati announced the launch of “Meetha by Radisson Hotels,” a premium dessert destination that brings a curated selection of Indian sweets today. The launch event, held at the hotel on Thursday afternoon, was attended by prominent figures from Assam’s business and bureaucratic circles, making it a notable occasion in the city’s culinary scene.

Located within the sophisticated setting of Radisson Blu Guwahati, Meetha by Radisson Hotels offers a menu expertly crafted by renowned chefs, featuring a mix of regional favorites and classic Indian desserts. Signature items include Kaju Kamal Bhog, Diamond Cake, Pakiza, Kaju Hara Paan, Malai Roll, Kaju Kalinger, and Gulkand Ball, each meticulously prepared using the finest ingredients to provide an authentic and exceptional experience.

Meetha by Radisson Hotels offers an extensive variety of handcrafted sweets that reflect Radisson Hotels’ commitment to quality and excellence. Each dessert is made with high-quality ingredients, preserving the essence of traditional Indian mithai while catering to contemporary tastes. The menu also includes options for health-conscious guests, with a range of sugar-free and low-calorie sweets available for guilt-free indulgence.

“Guwahati is a city rich in culture and tradition, and we are excited to bring Meetha by Radisson Hotels to our guests. We believe that our guests will enjoy the unique culinary offerings we have designed, which reflect the diverse flavors of India,” said Mr Ankur Mehrotra- General Manager. “Our goal is to create a space where every bite is a celebration of Indian sweets, offering an unparalleled experience for locals and visitors alike.”

Mr Nathen Andrews, Business Head Hospitality, DS Group noted, “The vision for Meetha was to create a destination that not only satisfies sweet cravings but also connects guests with the rich traditions of Indian dessert-making. Each sweet at Meetha is a story, crafted with passion and the commitment to quality that Radisson Hotels is known for.”

Adding to this, Mr Rakesh Sethi, Corporate Executive Chef, Radisson Hotel Group South Asia, stated, “Meetha by Radisson Hotels is more than just a collection of desserts; it is a celebration of Indian culture. It is a place where every guest can experience the warmth of Indian hospitality, one bite at a time.”

Whether seeking a delightful post-meal treat or the perfect gift for festive occasions, Meetha by Radisson Hotels offers something for everyone. Guests are invited to visit Radisson Blu Guwahati and experience the sweet side of Indian hospitality.

chargeMOD Launches Kerala’s Largest EV Charging Hub at Angamaly

Kochi , September 12, 2024: In honor of World EV Day, chargeMOD, Kerala based energy tech startup and South India’s largest EV charging network, has launched Kerala’s biggest EV Charging Hub near Athani Junction, NH, Angamaly. The launch took place as part of Wattz-On 2024 ,an electric mobility event of chargeMOD that aimed at promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption and infrastructure development across the region.

The introduction of the hub, along with dining outlets and a lounge, which is in the pipeline transforms the space into a convenient and relaxing destination for EV owners to unwind while their vehicles recharge. With more chargers on the way, the overall EV charging experience is set to improve, making it more accessible and user-friendly for travellers, especially those near the airport.

The new charging hub allows six vehicles to charge simultaneously. The fast chargers installed include 60kW Dual Gun and 30kW Dual Gun, ensuring fast and reliable service for EV owners.

We are seeing a powerful shift in how we approach energy and transportation in the state. “Located near the NH and airport, the hub offers convenient access to this greener alternative for people on the move.”said M. Ramanunni, CEO and Co-founder of chargeMOD.

To mark the Onam festival, chargeMOD is offering EV owners a special rate of just 12.71+ GST per unit at chargeMOD stations across Kerala until September 16.

The company also presented new features on the chargeMOD app such as Wallet Option, in which users can preload money in the app for easy and convenient charging without needing a subscription. advanced filter options where users can filter chargers by area, network, and other criteria to find the most suitable charging stations.

The new feature EV routing allows users to plan their journey and locate chargers along their route, including filter options to identify compatible networks.

Liju George, Director -Colombier Lab, Hari Krishnan, Co committee member – EVOK and owner of Copper Temple Real Estate Company and the charging station, Hari Chembukav and his wife Vanaja Chembukavspoke during the event.

Spices Board Launches ‘CardsApp’ to Boost Cardamom Production

Idukki: The Spices Board India introduced the ‘CardsApp,’ a mobile application aimed at enhancing cardamom production, during the Spices Conclave and Buyer-Seller Meet held at the Indian Cardamom Research Institute in Myladumpara, Idukki.

 Dr. K.G. Jagadeesha IAS, Secretary of the Spices Board, inaugurated the event. He also launched the Spices Incubation Center at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, and the Kisan Seva Kendra, a dedicated farmer facilitation center. The Kisan Seva Kendra aims to support the spice farmers and provide solutions to various challenges in the agricultural sector.

During the conclave, the Spices Board showcased the ‘CardsApp,’ which provides vital soil test results, including a Soil Fertility Map, from samples collected across 19 villages in Udumbanchola and Idukki taluks—regions known for their cardamom cultivation potential. The app is expected to play a crucial role in increasing productivity by offering data-driven insights to farmers.

The event also featured addresses by key officials, including Dr. A.B. Rama Shree, Director of the Spices Board; K. Dhanapal, Head of the Crop Protection Department at Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Myladumpara; AV Gnanasambandam, CEO and Executive Director of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University -Agribusiness Incubation Society; Simanta Saikia, Deputy Director of Spices Board, Bodinaikkanur, and Dr. Jessy MD, Director of the Rubber Board.

During the event, Dr. T. Radhakrishnan, a renowned soil expert and Assistant Professor at Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology (DUK), conducted a session on utilizing the ‘CardsApp.’ Additionally, Dr. M. Murugan, Professor and Head at the Cardamom Research Station of Kerala Agricultural University, delivered a session on the impact of climate change on cardamom production.

Approximately 300 participants attended the conclave and buyer seller meet, including representatives from agricultural cooperatives, farmers’ organizations, cardamom producers’ federations, and the export trade sector.
The Spices Board aims to empower cardamom farmers by utilizing the latest technological advancements through initiatives like ‘CardsApp,’ which will contribute to the growth and sustainability of India’s cardamom production industry.

Rooftop-The View at Radisson Blu, Kaushambi Hosts “Purvanchal Express” Food Festival

New Delhi, 12th September 2024 – Rooftop-The View at Radisson Blu, Kaushambi is thrilled to announce the launch of the “Purvanchal Express” food festival, a celebration of the rich and diverse cuisine of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Starting from 6th September 2024 till 15th September 2024, the festival promises to offer food lovers an experience that combines authentic regional flavours with the sophisticated ambiance of Rooftop-The View.

The “Purvanchal Express” food festival is a tribute to the rich cuisine of Eastern Uttar Pradesh and marks Rooftop-The View as a premier food destination in Delhi NCR. With a focus on adding new varieties to the menu, this festival is designed to enhance the dining experience. The culinary team has curated a special menu that features iconic dishes like Nihari Gosht, Tunday Kebab, Kakori Kebab, Awadhi Biryani, Litti Chokha, and Champaran Meat, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies.

Mr. Navneet Jain, CEO, Radisson Blu, Kaushambi, Delhi NCR, said, “We are excited to bring the authentic taste of Purvanchal to our guests. This festival is an opportunity for us to connect with the community and offer them an event like never before. The specially curated menu caters to the wide preferences of food lovers enjoying the mouth-watering delicacies ensuring a delightful dining experience. The festival highlights our commitment to focus on customer satisfaction.”

Speaking about the festival, Chef Dheeraj Mathur, Cluster Executive Chef, Radisson Blu, Kaushambi, said, “Purvanchal cuisine is a reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage, and we have worked hard to ensure that every dish stays true to its roots. From the aromatic spices to the Ayurvedic influences, every element has been thoughtfully crafted to give our guests an authentic taste of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. We are excited to bring these traditional dishes to our menu and look forward to our guests to experience the dishes.”

The festival aims to introduce guests to a culinary journey that showcases the traditional flavours of Purvanchal. The event offers a perfect blend of traditional recipes and modern presentation, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts in Delhi NCR.

Rooftop-The View at Radisson Blu, Kaushambi continues to elevate dining experiences, and the “Purvanchal Express” food festival is another step in that direction.

The Hive Hostels to Add 3,000 Beds by End of FY25; Partners with Crib to Fully Digitize Operations

Bengaluru Sep 12, 2024: The Hive Hostels, a premium student accommodation provider, plans to add 3,000 beds by the end of Financial Year (FY) 2025 with an investment of Rs 10 crore. The company has also onboarded Crib, India’s leading property management software platform, to fully digitalize its business operations, financial systems, and management processes. This partnership aims to enhance The Hive Hostels’ operational efficiency as the company prepares for its upcoming IPO.

With a presence in over 10 cities across India, The Hive Hostels operates 20 properties with more than 5,000 beds. The company recently completed a successful pre-IPO funding round, raising Rs 11.5 crore. The company plans to go public in the second half of next year, underscoring its growth trajectory and market confidence.

Aurus – The Pinnacle of Luxury Student Residencies

The Hive Hostels is also excited to unveil its latest offering Aurus – Luxury Student Residences. This new venture, initially launching with 450 beds, represents a new standard in student accommodation. Aurus combines luxury with practicality, featuring:

Sophisticated Design: Meticulously crafted interiors that blend modern elegance with comfort.
High-End Amenities: Smart home technology, modern fitness centers, and stylish communal spaces.
Exceptional Comfort: Tailored environments to support academic success and personal well-being.
Looking ahead, The Hive Hostels plans to expand Aurus by an additional 1,000 beds in the upcoming session, reflecting its commitment to meeting growing demand and elevating its premium offerings.

Transforming Co-Living with Cutting-Edge Technology

The Hive Hostels has also onboarded Crib Property Solutions to provide technology support for managing and operating its properties. Crib, backed by some of the biggest names in the industry like that of Kunal Shah, Vijay Shekhar Sharma and Ghazal Alagh, is renowned for its innovative property management solutions, and currently works with over 2,000 co-living operators and hostels owners across India. These 2,000 landlords oversee 4,000+ properties, which are a home to 200,000 beds and generate a rental income exceeding Rs 3,000 crores annually.

Through this partnership, Crib will bring its state-of-the-art technology to The Hive Hostels providing:

• Efficient Booking and Payments: Streamlined systems for reservations, payment processing, and financial management.

• Optimized Resident Support: Advanced tools for handling feedback, resolving complaints, and managing maintenance efficiently.

• Data-Driven Insights: Comprehensive analytics to improve operational efficiency and enhance the overall resident experience.

Shaifali Jain, Co-Founder & CPO of Crib, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We started Crib for companies like The Hive Hostels, which represent the future of co-living and student housing in India. Our mission is to allow operators to focus on delivering top-notch real estate and hospitality experiences while we manage the rest.”

Rohan Gupta, Chief Marketing Officer of The Hive Hostels, commented on the partnership, saying, “Our collaboration with Crib is a game-changer. Their innovative technology aligns perfectly with our vision for excellence. The launch of Aurus – Luxury Student Residences, supported by Crib’s platform, positions us to set new benchmarks in luxury student living and operational efficiency.”

WTC and EEPC Eastern Region Host Export Opportunities and GST Developments: Awareness Session at OSSIA – Cuttack

Awareness Session on Exploring Export Opportunities Through IESS XII & Recent Developments in GST and the Way Forward – OSSIA – Cuttack

11th Sept 2024/Cuttack: WTC and EEPC Eastern Region hosted an awareness session titled “Exploring Export Opportunities Through IESS XII & Recent Developments in GST and the Way Forward” today. The event was commenced at 11:30 AM in the OSSIA Conference Hall, Industrial Estate, Cuttack.

The session began with a warm welcome from Mrs. Nimeshika Natarajan, Asst. Director WTC Bhubaneswar, who introduced the distinguished guests, including Mr. Smarajit Mohanty, President of OSSIA; Mr. Tarun Kanta Mohanty, General Manager of DIC, Cuttack; Mrs. Jaya Basu, Regional Director (ER) of EEPC India; Mr. Pranav Kumar from ECGC Ltd., Bhubaneswar branch; and Mr. Ishan Tulsian, FCA. The host, Mr. Smarajit Mohanty, delivered the welcome address, noting that the event was a joint effort by EEPC Eastern Region and WTC Bhubaneswar.

Mr. Tarun Kanta Mohanty kicked off the session by discussing the benefits of exporting, emphasizing how diversified exports, particularly in the chemical and related industries from Cuttack, can enhance income. He provided a detailed explanation of the export process and highlighted the subsidies available from the Odisha government.

Mrs. Nimeshika Natarajan, Assistant Director of WTC Bhubaneswar, informed attendees about export opportunities for perishable goods and encouraged interested parties to reach out to WTC Bhubaneswar.

Mrs. Jaya Basu presented an overview of IESS activities, emphasizing its role in innovation, collaboration, and the organization of trade shows to showcase engineering goods both nationally and internationally.

Mr. Pranav Kumar from ECGC Ltd., provided valuable insights into the role of ECGC as an export credit insurer and discussed the various aspects involved in detail. This was followed by a compelling and informative presentation by Mr. Ishan Tulsian, FCA, on Recent Developments in GST and the way forward. Mr. Tulsian addressed key budget proposals in CGST and IGST Acts and the finance budget, and engaged in a Q&A session to answer participants’ queries.

Mrs. Rekha Nair, Director (HR & Operations) Shreyas Webmedia Solutions commented: “Shreyas was thrilled to attend the Awareness Session on Exploring Export Opportunities Through IESS XII & Recent Developments in GST, and left with valuable insights, new connections, and a renewed sense of inspiration to drive growth and success!”

The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Sanjay Kumar Mahapatra, Honorary Secretary of OSSIA, followed by a luncheon. This session provided valuable insights into export opportunities available through the Indian Export Summit Series (IESS XII) and discussed recent updates in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of these developments and their implications for future business strategies.

Legendary goalkeeper, Arjuna awardee footballer Subrata Paul joins Woxsen University as Executive Fellow

-His joining aligns with the institution’s larger vision of building a strong sporting culture with the best facilities at the educational level, supporting players in building careers in sports.

Hyderabad, 11 September 2024: One of India’s greatest goalkeepers and Arjuna Awardee footballer, Subrata Paul, has joined Woxsen University as an Executive Fellow. The former Indian captain will inspire students and share his experiences from his 15-year international playing career, touching on topics such as team building, goalkeeping, captaincy, playing across the world, winning the Golden Glove, coaching, and life off the field. Paul will motivate students by discussing themes of hard work, perseverance, leadership, winning, and much more. Additionally, he will assist in advancing consultancy in sports at the University in various areas as needed.

The legendary footballer is widely regarded as the greatest Indian goalkeeper of all time. Nicknamed the ‘Spiderman’ by the Australian, Korean, and Asian media for his exploits in the 2011 Asian Cup in Doha, Paul is the only Indian footballer to have been given a nickname by the international media. His joining Woxsen University aligns with both his and the institution’s larger vision of building a strong sporting culture at the educational level, supporting Indian players in building careers in sports, and carving a niche for themselves on the international stage.

Reflecting on his journey and the opportunities provided by Woxsen University, Paul said, “I had heard about the sporting facilities at Woxsen University, and once I visited, I was pleasantly amazed at what has been built. Kudos to the management for having the vision and willingness to take on the social responsibility of providing the best for all students. As a kid, I mostly played on grounds devoid of grass and often littered with pebbles. Students here are lucky to have such infrastructure. This is the best university sporting facility I have ever seen. I’ve been fortunate to travel all over the world, but this one ranks at the top among most universities.”

On incorporating sports education into the curriculum of schools and higher educational institutions, Paul emphasized the importance of making sports compulsory. He stated, “We need to have compulsory periods for sports. Unless a student passes in sports, they shouldn’t be given a degree. Every day, for around 90 minutes, everyone needs to go out and play. They may not all turn into professional players, but sports make you a better individual. It’s high time every educational institution started giving extra credits for sports. This has been long overdue, and we keep speaking about it.“

Notably, Paul has played in Denmark for Vestsjaelland and for all leading clubs in India, including Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Salgaocar, Pune FC, Hyderabad FC, Mumbai City FC, NEUFC, and Jamshedpur FC, others. Currently, he also owns a professional team, runs his own academy, coaches underprivileged kids at his own expense, engages in philanthropic activities, and supports the underprivileged.