Category Archives: News

BITS Pilani Receives A++ NAAC Accreditation, Solidifying Its Position as a Leader in Higher Education

National, December 13, 2024: BITS Pilani, an institution of eminence known for its commitment to innovation, has been awarded the coveted A++ grade with a score of 3.68 out of 4 in the latest circular of NAAC accreditation. This will place it among the top 4% of NAAC-accredited universities in the country, a remarkable testimony to the institution’s commitment to academic and institutional excellence.

The process for assessment by the NAAC is based on seven criteria: Curricular Aspects Teaching, Learning, and Evaluation, Research, Innovation, and Extensions, Infrastructure and Learning Resources, Student Support and Progression, Governance, Leadership, and Management, Institutional Values & Best Practices for evaluation. BITS scored an astounding 100% in Criterion 1-Curricular Aspects for its innovative curriculum and its significant learner-centric approach. Enhanced research output, progressive research policies, and impactful faculty contributions also played a pivotal role in this recognition.

Speaking on the achievement, Prof Ramgopal Rao, Vice Chancellor, BITS Pilani, said, “The A++ grade awarded by NAAC, a highly recognized accreditation entity confirms the persistent commitment of BITS Pilani to quality and reinforces our standing as one of India’s leading higher education institutions. Our Enhanced research output and research promotion policies have played a vital role in achieving the recent accreditation. We look forward to continuing our journey of academic and research excellence, further elevating our impact on education and innovation, and setting new benchmarks for higher education in India and beyond”.

Coordinator of BITS internal quality assessment cell Prof. Mani Sankar Dasgupta, spearheading the accreditation drive mentioned “We are thrilled to announce that BITS Pilani has been awarded the highest NAAC grade of A++, a testament to our robust academic practices and pedagogy. This recognition crowns over a year of dedicated effort, with the recent successful NAAC peer team visit to our Pilani campus showcasing the excellence of inter-campus collaboration and the indomitable spirit of the BITS community.”

The A++ designation is an expression of the institution’s commitment to the highest standards in education; it reflects its ability to balance constant self-examination and analysis with staying true to its vision of excellence in education and research.

Telangana Solar Energy Association Proposes Requirement for Solar Panels on Every Government Building

Hyderabad, December 13, 2024……Media Day Marketing (MDM), a city-based well-known expos organiser inaugurated four expos 4th Edition of the Dairy & Food Expo and 6th Edition of India Green Energy Expo & the 4th Edition of the Green Vehicle Expo. Dairy and Food Expos were inaugurated by Industry and Associations leaders on Thursday. These are open till the 14th and are open from 10 am to 6 pm.

Ponnam Prabhakar, Minister of Transport, Govt of Telangana visited the expo, and inaugurated the other two expos—the 6th Edition of India Green Energy Expo & the 4th Edition of the Green Vehicle Expo.

Speaking on the occasion after the inauguration B Ashok Kumar Goud, President of Telangana Solar Energy Association said The Telangana Solar Power Policy when announced in the year 2015 hogged a lot of limelight and Telangana became a number one state in India. But we couldn’t hold on to that position for long and now we are not even in the top ten states in India. Many states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu are way ahead of us. After 2017 the investors backed out of the state. Now solar is not a happening industry in Telangana he said.

Echoing him was Rajesh Parakala, Vice President of Telangana Solar Energy Association. Rajesh said the central government of India offers several subsidies to promote solar energy under schemes such as PM Surya Ghar; Muft Bijli Yojana; Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyaan (PM-KUSUM). However, the state of Telangana doesn’t encourage the industry nor offer any such subsidies or incentives to promote the industry.

Both leaders suggested that it is only logical that all government buildings must have solar panels. They should lead by example. Even the PM Surya Ghar (PMSG) scheme mandates the same. Under the PMSG too Government offices in India have received a mandate to ensure 100 per cent solarisation by 2025. They further suggested that Telangana has 30,000 schools and schools must be mandated to go Solar.

All new commercial buildings in future must be mandated to go solar. This seems a gigantic task, at least 20% of its components must be solar friendly, they added.

The PM-KUSUM scheme is not fully implemented in the state. Under this scheme one crore houses to be solarised. And the target for Telangana was five lakh houses. But ten months since the scheme opened not more than 3500 houses have gone solar. We want the government to be solar-friendly. We want the government to encourage and promote the solar industry, Ashok and Rajesh added.

The other dignitaries who graced the inaugural include Mrs Dasari Aruna, President Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI) Hyderabad – Telangana State; Shri Adnan Sajid Khan (Gullu Dada fame); Actor Shri Shehbaazkhan and other Government officials along with Automotive & Renewable Association & Industry members.

Dasari Aruna said though electric vehicles get encouragement subsidies, and tax exemptions, the associated industries such as charging stations and related infrastructure must be developed.

Mr Ram Soundalkar, Mr Mohd Mudassar, and Mr Kashif Razz, the three Directors of Media Day said Ryoto Electrix is sponsoring three e-two wheelers which will be given away in a lucky draw to one visitor each for the next three days who visit green vehicles expo

Ambuja Cements Commemorates 51 SEDI Trainees for Their Employment Achievements in Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh, 13 December 2024: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, celebrated a moment of pride at the Diwali Milan event organised by the district administration in Baloda Bazaar, Chhattisgarh.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister, Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai, Cabinet Minister Mr. Tank Ram Verma, and District Collector Mr. Deepak Soni honoured 24 alumni from Ambuja’s Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Institutes (SEDI) in Bhatapara and Rawan for securing employment in renowned organisations.

As part of the district administration’s ‘Hum Honge Kamyab’ initiative, a total of 51 SEDI trainees were recognised at the event for their career achievements. Sharing her journey, one trainee said, “SEDI gave me the skills and confidence to not only secure a job but also improve my family’s living standards.”

Ambuja Cements remains dedicated to empowering rural communities through skill development and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. Initiatives including SEDI underscore the company’s commitment to building stronger, self-reliant communities and transforming lives across the nation.

Swiggy Introduces One BLCK: A Luxurious, Invite-Only Premium Membership Experience

Bengaluru, Dec 13, 2024: Swiggy Ltd, India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, today introduced One BLCK, an exclusive, invite-only membership for consumers seeking the highest level of convenience and service.

One BLCK is designed to deliver an elevated Swiggy experience. Members will enjoy faster deliveries on every food order, along with an On-Time Guarantee. When dining out, members can indulge in complimentary cocktails, drinks, or desserts. They will also benefit from access to Swiggy’s top customer care agents for personalized, priority support.

One BLCK members will also enjoy all the benefits of the current Swiggy One membership, including unlimited free deliveries on both food delivery and Instamart, as well as exclusive member-only discounts on food delivery and Dineout.

Industry’s First Premium Membership

One BLCK is the country’s only membership that offers benefits across categories of food delivery, quick commerce and dining out, along with industry-first benefits for premium users. Members also gain access to exclusive perks from top partner brands such as Amazon Prime, Hotstar, Hamleys, Cinepolis, and more. To celebrate the launch, One BLCK members will receive a One BLCK-only complimentary Yatra Prime membership.

“We are thrilled to introduce Swiggy One BLCK, designed to provide an elevated experience for users who demand the highest levels of service, convenience, and exclusive privileges from Swiggy,” said Phani Kishan, Co-founder and CGO of Swiggy. “Swiggy One BLCK is the business-class equivalent for our customers—refining the aspects that matter most to premium users: speed, reliability, and personalized care. With this launch, we’re setting a new benchmark for premium memberships in the industry.”

Launched in 2021, ~80% of Swiggy One members use two or more services on Swiggy and spend 3x more than non-Swiggy One members. With the introduction of this premium service One BLCK, Swiggy aims to elevate the experience for premium customers while driving growth across all its businesses.

SWITCH Mobility Revolutionizes Urban Mobility with New Low-Floor Electric City Buses EiV12 and E1

Chennai, 13th December, 2024 – SWITCH Mobility Ltd, subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, and a leading manufacturer of electric buses and light commercial vehicles today unveiled its contemporary electric bus platform SWITCH EiV12 – the low floor electric city bus for the Indian market. It is India’s First Low-Floor City Bus with Chassis-mounted batteries, featuring a scalable battery capacity of over 400+ kWh.

 The vehicle was launched by Shri Nitin Gadkari Hon’ble Minister for Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, in the presence of Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Group Companies (India), other dignitaries, and industry leaders.

 On the occasion, SWITCH E1, engineered for the European Market, was flagged off virtually. Both these buses share common design philosophies and EV architecture.

 The purpose-built SWITCH EiV12 platform is indigenously designed, developed and manufactured for urban city commutes, offering global standards in performance, safety, reliability, and comfort. With seating for up to 39 passengers, the SWITCH EiV12 leads its segment, offering maximum revenue potential for operators.

Mr Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group of Companies (India) observed while launching these vehicles “These buses are a tribute to the PM’s Make in India vision: made in India, for India and the World. Switch Mobility is inspired to launch newer vehicles with cutting-edge technology and zero carbon emissions, only because of the wonderful road infrastructure that is coming up in India, owing to visionaries like Modi Ji and implementers like Gadkari Ji.”

 Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of SWITCH Mobility, said, “The launch of the SWITCH EiV12 and the flagging off of the SWITCH E1 for Spain is a proud milestone for the Hinduja Group and Ashok Leyland, underscoring our commitment to sustainable mobility. In addition to the EiV12 and E1, SWITCH is developing a range of new products to expand our global offerings. At SWITCH Mobility, we are driving a greener future and advancing our long-term vision to democratize electric mobility worldwide.”

 Mr. Mahesh Babu, Chief Executive Officer, SWITCH Mobility, said, ” At SWITCH Mobility, we’re excited to unveil two new products for India and Europe, both built on our Global EV architecture. These innovations harness cutting-edge EV technology to deliver superior efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort. Our low-floor electric city bus, designed for optimal energy performance and accessibility, has garnered an overwhelming 1,800 orders—proof of the market’s confidence in SWITCH Mobility’s vision for a sustainable urban transport future.”

 The India electric city bus market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21% by 2030 with an EV penetration of 70%. The total parc for electric city buses is likely to cross 70,000 units by 2030.

 The SWITCH EiV12 sets a new benchmark in passenger comfort, safety, and technology, reshaping the EV landscape. Its low-floor entry with a kneeling mechanism ensures easy ingress and egress, while the automated wheelchair ramp and dedicated spaces make it accessible for differently abled passengers. Designed with women’s safety in mind, it is equipped with 5 CCTV cameras with no blind spots and includes 5 dedicated seats for women. The expansive panoramic glass area, the largest in its segment, offers superior visibility, naturally lit interiors, and enhanced safety. Powered by SWITCH iON, our proprietary telematics system, the SWITCH EiV12 offers real-time vehicle health monitoring, ITMS and efficient fleet management. Its efficient rear-end dual-gun charging interface not only ensures rapid recharging but also optimizes depot spaces, while an IP67 rated battery lets the bus deal with flooded roads with ease.

 The SWITCH E1, our latest innovation designed specifically for the European market, showcases cutting-edge engineering with a lightweight monocoque construction, ensuring optimal efficiency and performance. The SWITCH E1 features in-wheel motors and a flat gangway layout throughout the bus, providing seamless movement and accessibility for passengers. With its triple-door configuration (front, center, and rear), the bus offers unmatched convenience for quick boarding and alighting, perfectly suited for urban transit systems. Capable of accommodating up to 93 passengers, including standees, the SWITCH E1 sets a new benchmark in sustainable, passenger-centric public transportation.

Zee Media’s Unprecedented Growth Reinforces Its Dominance in National and Regional Television Reach

Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), a leading name in Indian news broadcasting, has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high-quality, unbiased news—a principle that has consistently set it apart in a competitive industry. This dedication to journalistic integrity and audience trust has driven significant growth in viewership across both national and regional channels, as evidenced by the latest data from the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC).

Recent BARC ratings for the 49th week of 2024 reveal a substantial surge in Zee Media’s reach and viewership. Zee News, ZMCL’s flagship channel, has outperformed its peers in the news media genre. In Week 49 of 2024, Zee News achieved an impressive reach of 52.2 million, surpassing competitors like TV9 Bharatvarsh , India TV, Times Now Navbharat and ABP News. On free platforms, with a wider coverage reach of 22 million, Zee News emerged as the number one channel, outperforming peers such as Aaj Tak, India TV, News18 India, TV9 Bharatvarsh, Republic Bharat, Times Now Navbharat and ABP News.

Mr. Rahul Sinha, Managing Editor of Zee News, highlighted, “Our commitment to providing credible, authentic, and comprehensive news has been the cornerstone of our growth. We focus on covering all news—big or small, national or local—that matters to the people of India. Our prime time shows, such as ‘Rajneeti’, ‘Baat Pate Ki’, ‘Deshhit’ and ‘DNA’ continue to engage viewers, driving our viewership numbers higher each week. Our audience’s trust is our greatest asset, and we strive every day to honour that trust with integrity and dedication.”

Ms. Hemlata Sharma, Distribution Head at Zee Media, echoed the importance of accessibility in viewership growth: “At Zee Media, our goal is to ensure that all our channels are within easy reach of our audience. Our longstanding reputation in news broadcasting helps our channels stand out in a crowded market. By combining strategic placement with high-quality, engaging content, we consistently capture the attention of viewers and drive impressive results.”

Not only have the national channels seen substantial growth, but Zee Media’s regional channels are also gaining significant traction. Zee Business continues to lead in its genre. In the regional markets, Zee Madhya Pradesh Chhattisgarh (MPCG) leads in the MPCG news genre with the highest gross Average Minute Audience (AMA). Similarly, Zee Rajasthan and Zee Delhi NCR Haryana are no.1 channel in their respective genres, while Salaam TV maintains a dominant position with significant viewership.

Mr. Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO of ZMCL, emphasized the importance of viewer trust and strategic execution, stating, “At ZMCL, our mission has always been to serve the public with accurate, timely, and relevant news. The recent BARC data is a testament to our editorial integrity and our audience’s faith in us. Our strategic distribution efforts and commitment to high-quality journalism continues to drive our channels to new heights. We are focused on delivering content that resonates with viewers across all demographics, ensuring that Zee Media remains at the forefront of the industry.”

With its factual and engaging content, clear strategy, and dedicated team, Zee Media is set to remain a formidable force in the media industry, ready to meet the future with confidence and continue serving its audience with excellence.

Fujifilm Unveils Mikoto Colon Model to Enhance Medical Education at IAGES Training

Chennai, December 12, 2024: FUJIFILM India – a leader in medical technology proudly unveiled the groundbreaking mikoto Colon Model, a cutting-edge endoscopy simulation technology, during the prestigious Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (IAGES) Prof. Dr. B Krishna Rau Simulation Training Programme, a hands-on endoscopy workshop, in Chennai. Bring this innovation in India reinforces Fujifilm’s commitment to advancing medical education and improving patient outcomes.

The mikoto Colon Model is a state-of-the-art medical training simulator designed to revolutionize endoscopy education. Compact and portable, it combines advanced sensor technology with artificial intelligence to provide realistic feedback, evaluate procedures, and score performance. With four levels of difficulty, it enables self-paced learning for practitioners of varying expertise. This innovative simulator enhances skills, builds confidence, and ensures greater precision in real-world applications, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and advancing the standards of endoscopic care.

Prof. Masashi Fujii, MD, Ph.D., CEO of R Zero Inc., Japan, highlighted the significance of this innovation, stating: “The mikoto Colon Model represents a leap forward in medical training. By combining technology with education, it allows healthcare professionals to refine their skills in a controlled, realistic environment, ensuring better patient outcomes.”

The mikoto Colon Model sets a new standard in endoscopy training.
This state-of-the-art, portable medical simulator utilizes advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to evaluate and score procedures, offering four levels of difficulty for self-guided learning.

Dr. Subhash Agarwal, President, IAGES voiced – “IAGES Endoscopy board has been very active since 2016, under the guidance of Prof B. Krishna Rau, Dr. Easwaramoorthy, Dr Satish Midha and Dr K.Govindaraj ,promoting the importance of endoscopy training for surgeons. Thanks to team IAGES Chennai 2024 under the leadership of Dr Zameer Pasha, Dr T Sivakumar, Dr M.Kanagavel and Dr. Rajavel and their financial support, now we are about to launch Prof BKR Simulation based training programs.”

Speaking at the event, Jumpei Toyoda, General Manager, FUJIFILM Healthcare Asia Pacific, Endoscopy, stated – “With mikoto Colon Model in India, Fujifilm reaffirms its commitment to delivering innovative healthcare solutions. This technology empowers endoscopy professionals to intensify their skills, paving the way for improved diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.”

The unveiling of the mikoto Colon Model marks a transformative moment in medical training, underscoring Fujifilms dedication to advancing endoscopy education. By combining cutting-edge simulation technology with practical learning, it empowers healthcare professionals to enhance their skills and achieve better patient outcomes.

ITC Nimyle Introduces ‘Clean Equal Mission’ to Champion Equality and Inclusivity

Hyderabad, 12th December, 2024 : ITC Nimyle, India’s trusted home hygiene brand made with neem, takes a conscious step towards a more responsible tomorrow with the launch of its Clean Equal Mission. In many households, women are expected to take the primary responsibility of household chores especially cleaning. The initiative is designed to foster equality in cleaning by raising awareness and inspiring action among the next gen. The Clean Equal Mission includes a first-of-kind educative module for children, to instil cleaning as a shared responsibility. Our endeavour is to inculcate a change in society which will enable children of today to grow up with a deep sense of independence and equality along with the basics of cleanliness and hygiene.

Cleaning is the first chore that children are usually tasked with at home. Studies have shown that doing chores from a young age lays the groundwork for a more fulfilling and successful life in the future. Participating in these chores also helps them develop a stronger sense of self-worth while fostering empathy and teamwork skills. Most importantly, it encourages independence, which is crucial for their future.

Joining the launch at Hyderabad, was former World No. 1 in Women’s Doubles (Tennis), Ms. Sania Mirza. The launch event included an interactive panel discussion with Ms. Sania Mirza, Mr. Sanjay Srinivas, Vice President – Marketing, Personal Care Products Business, ITC Limited, along with Ms. Madhavi Chandra, Principal of Gitanjali Devshala and Director in the Gitanjali Group of schools, and Ms. Kiranmai Choudary, an accomplished educator and parenting mentor trained under Glenn Doman at The Institutes for Achievement of Human Potential, Philadelphia, USA. Ms. Choudary further engaged invitee parents in an interactive workshop on Clean Equal.

Through engaging, age-appropriate educational content, the program inspires kids to embrace responsibility in a positive, fun and relatable way. This initiative is a collaborative programme with schools and parents to help children internalise the idea of Clean Equal enabling them to grow into responsible individuals who value equality.

Sania Mirza, endorsing the initiative, added, “I am honoured to be a part of ITC Nimyle’s Clean Equal Mission. This initiative deeply resonates with my values and the need for responsible parenting. It’s more than just cleaning; it’s about fostering a sense of shared responsibility and nurturing the mindset of equality from an impressionably young age. I must compliment the ITC Nimyle team for broaching this conversation which will encourage parents like us, schools and children to collectively work together for a more equal and responsible tomorrow!”

Sameer Satpathy, Divisional Chief Executive, Personal Care Products Business, ITC Limited commented, “ITC Nimyle’s Clean Equal Mission reflects our dedication to drive positive change by fostering values of equality from a young age. Cleaning is one of the first household chores that drives a sense of ownership, pride and self-worth. We believe that this program will help children nurture the values of teamwork, independence, and a sense of empowerment, encouraging them to become more responsible adults in the future.’’

Nimyle Clean Equal Mission is built on a simple yet powerful idea: household chores, including cleaning, are more than tasks; they are opportunities to teach life skills, build self-worth, and foster cleanliness, hygiene and equality. The programme seeks to engage through schools and help parents integrate these practices into their children’s lives through engaging, age-appropriate activities. Nimyle Clean Equal Mission marks its beginning in Hyderabad with an outreach to more than 1 lakh students in its first phase in Hyderabad. Over the next few months, the initiative will scale its outreach to engage more than 8 Lakh students in India.

Fashor CEO Vikram Kankaria Looks Back at Fashion Retail’s Evolution in 2024

By-Vikram Kankaria, Co-Founder & CEO, Fashor

As we close the curtain on 2024, it’s inspiring to look back at what has been an extraordinary year for Fashor and the fashion industry as a whole. This year was marked by rapid evolution in consumer behavior, driven by technology, sustainability, and a deeper appreciation for inclusivity in fashion.

Key Highlights and Challenges of 2024

2024 has been a milestone year for Fashor. With over 10 lakh loyal customers, we’ve grown not just in numbers but also in the hearts of Indian women who resonate with our ethos of making affordable, designer ethnic wear accessible to all. The introduction of Sara Ali Khan as our first brand ambassador through the “Dil Se Indian” campaign has elevated our brand visibility, aligning perfectly with our celebration of tradition and modernity.

This year, we secured $5 million in funding from Blume Ventures, which has set the stage for our next phase of omni-channel expansion. While expanding our digital presence, we’ve also embraced offline retail with plans to open 100 exclusive brand outlets (EBOs) in the coming years. However, the path hasn’t been without challenges. Rising costs in raw materials and supply chain inefficiencies have tested our ability to maintain affordability while delivering exceptional quality. But through strategic planning and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, we’ve navigated these hurdles successfully.

Trends That Shaped 2024

Several exciting trends have redefined the fashion landscape this year:
1. Rise of Regional Fashion: Indian consumers are embracing the richness of local craftsmanship. Ethnic wear has gained significant traction, with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities driving nearly 60% of fashion retail growth in India. Fashor’s focus on ethnic and fusion styles has placed us at the forefront of this movement.
2. Inclusivity in Sizing and Styles: With women increasingly seeking fashion that celebrates diversity, inclusivity is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. At Fashor, offering sizes from S to 5XL has helped us cater to every body type, empowering women to feel confident and stylish.
3. Fast Yet Sustainable Fashion: Consumers are becoming more eco-conscious, prompting brands to innovate in sustainable manufacturing practices. While we launch over 500 new styles every month, we are also exploring eco-friendly fabric options and production methods to align with this shift.
4. Digital-First Approach with Omni-Channel Growth: With online fashion sales expected to grow by 35% annually, brands must maintain a strong digital footprint. Yet, the resurgence of offline retail proves that Indian shoppers enjoy touchpoints that bridge physical and digital experiences. This is where our EBOs and presence in retail giants like Shoppers Stop and Lifestyle have strengthened our position.

Vision for 2025
Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be a transformative year for the fashion industry, and we are poised to lead the charge. Here’s what excites me most:

– Deeper Customer Connections Through Technology: AI and machine learning will play an even greater role in offering personalized shopping experiences. From tailored recommendations to virtual try-ons, we aim to make fashion more intuitive and enjoyable for our customers.

– Omni-Channel Excellence: While our online channels will remain strong growth drivers, the opening of Fashor’s EBOs across India will enable us to create a seamless shopping experience, offering the best of both worlds to our customers.

– Sustainability as a Core Value: Fashion cannot thrive without responsibility. In 2025, we aim to introduce eco-friendly collections while optimizing production to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.

– Expansion Beyond Borders: We are soon launching a global website to cater to the growing demand internationally. We have customers across the US, UK, Dubai, Malaysia

Personal Reflection and Gratitude
Fashor began as a dream to redefine ethnic fashion in India, and today, that dream feels more tangible than ever. I am proud of how far we’ve come, but I’m equally excited about the road ahead. At the heart of Fashor is our belief in celebrating every woman’s individuality and helping her embrace her unique style. This belief will continue to guide us as we evolve.

I am deeply grateful to our incredible team, our loyal customers, and our partners for making 2024 a landmark year. As we step into 2025, my focus remains on fostering innovation, promoting inclusivity, and staying true to our mission of making fashion accessible, empowering, and joyful for every woman.

Here’s to a new year filled with fresh opportunities, bold milestones, and endless inspiration!

Chandigarh Races Toward a Greener Future at SBI Green Marathon Season 5 with Mirchi

Chandigarh, December 2024: Between staying in bed on a cold winter morning and being the flagbearers of sustainability, the residents of Chandigarh chose the latter – all charged up to go beyond finish lines. The leisurely atmosphere of the Chandigarh Club sensed a different vibe altogether – a vibe of change, a vibe of motivation, a vibe of hope. 8th December 2024 was a day when 3000 + residents of Chandigarh donned their winter athleisure, all warmed up for SBI Green Marathon in association with Mirchi.

SBI Green Marathon in association with Mirchi has always encouraged everyone to go beyond finish lines – through a sustainable marathon, you not only run for a healthy you, but also for healthy planet! And we’re glad that the city of Chandigarh showed interest in bringing a change and join us in our initiative.

SBI and Mirchi have always stayed true to the commitment of a sustainable marathon. As part of registration for the run, they received organic T-shirts and plant-able BIBs, with a view to introduce a sustainable practice right from the start. These plant-able BIBs would help make the greenest city of Chandigarh, to retain its greenery.

Running categories include 5K, 10K, and 21K, creating an opportunity for all kinds of participation. You could be a beginner or an expert, what matters the most is your intent for a greener tomorrow. Additionally, the certification by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races), adds a global stamp of credibility and appeal, opening doors for global opportunities in the space of marathons.

Senior management from State Bank of India Shri Manoranjan Panda – General Manager Network 1, Shashank Kumar – Deputy General Manager and army representative Maj Gen Mathew Jacob, Commandant of the prestigious Military Hospital of Western Command were duly present at the event to flag off the marathon.

Being in the lively and vibrant city of Chandigarh, SBI and Mirchi emphasized picking the venue and wanted it to be perfect. Having said this, the epitome of recreation in Chandigarh i.e. the Chandigarh Club was the venue. The wide and clean roads of Chandigarh proved to be a perfect and pleasant backdrop for every runner.

As every participant ran on the track, the hope of a greener tomorrow was clearly visible on everyone’s face.

SBI Green marathon as an initiative is more than just a run. It’s an effort to build and grow a community of those who wish to see a green, clean and healthy tomorrow. The thought of going “Beyond Finish Lines” is a call to action, encouraging runners to be catalysts of positive and long-term change on a global level.

RJ Abby and RJ Omika from Mirchi Chandigarh played hosts for the event ensuring the participants are charged up and engaged for the run. Alongside, active members from the running community like Harjit Singh, Abhilasha Rai, Sanodh Saggi, Dipendar Singh and Inderjeet Singh wore the shoes of ambassadors for the run and played a key role in engaging with participants and pushing them to go beyond the finish line.

In a remarkable display of determination and grit, 14 blind children from Punjab University took part in the 5KM run. These young champions, who have faced unimaginable challenges in their daily lives, showed the world that with unwavering spirit and unrelenting passion, anything is possible. These children were motivated and volunteered by a team of officers led by Col Inderjit Singh and Col Ajitpal Singh.

 SBI and Mirchi partnered with Skrap as their waste management agency to handle waste generated during the event, responsibly. This association reflected the organizers’ ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting transparency, ensuring every aspect of the marathon aligns with its green ethos.

The 5th Edition of the SBI Green Marathon in collaboration with Mirchi is all about bringing a sustainable change, in you and in the planet. It’s not just a race but a beacon of sustainability, showing that real change happens when actions go beyond the finish lines.

To conclude, the city of Chandigarh is an experience in itself and with a touch of sustainability, it was more of a fulfilling experience. A mood board of laughs, sweat, hushes but above anything, pride. Pride in every cheer, every step pushing towards the finish line.