6, Feb 2026
Ampere Becomes First Indian E2W Brand to Conquer Kolli Hills, Enters Asia Book of Records
Ampere, from Greaves Electric Mobility, becomes India’s First E2W brand to enter Asia Book of Records by navigating the 70-hairpin bends of Kolli Hills, TN
Bengaluru, Feb 06: Greaves Electric Mobility has been recognized by the prestigious Asia Book of Records to become the first electric two-wheeler brand which successfully ascended Kolli Hills, in Tamil Nadu. Considered one of South India’s most demanding routes, Kolli Hills features 70 hairpin bends while ascending, making any drive a test of endurance.

The record attempt was conducted on January 7th, 2026, with the ride commencing at 7:00 am and successfully completed in 22 minutes 10 seconds. The ascent was undertaken using GEML’s Ampere Nexus, from Belukurichi to the summit of Kolli Hills. Officials from the Asia Book of Records officially validated and confirmed the success on the same day.
With its 70 hairpin bends, this challenging route showcased and proved Greaves Electric Mobility’s “Built for Bharat” engineering prowess, where vehicles are designed, developed, and validated for India’s diverse and often challenging riding conditions. From steep gradients and broken hill roads to sharp turns and sustained load cycles, GEML’s electric two-wheelers are engineered to handle the toughest terrains the country has to offer.
Taking cognizance of the latest achievement, Mr Vikas Singh, Managing Director, Greaves Electric Mobility said,
“India’s riding conditions are among the most demanding in the world, and our approach has always been to engineer electric vehicles that are built for Bharat, not just for ideal test environments. The Kolli Hills ascent is a real-world validation of that philosophy. The Ampere Nexus combines safe and durable LFP battery technology with a robust dual-frame chassis that is designed to handle steep gradients, repeated cornering, and sustained load conditions. Achievements like this reaffirm our focus on building electric mobility solutions that can perform reliably across tough terrains.”
The Ampere Nexus achieved this success due to its LFP battery and high tensile steel chassis which provides durability for every condition, work together on demanding terrain. The battery is built to stay stable in a wide range of conditions, operating from –40°C to 60°C, and continues to deliver usable power during long uphill stretches, repeated braking, and changes in load. The warranty offered on the battery reflects the confidence in how it performs over extended everyday use rather than short tests. Ampere Nexus’s advanced motor and software deliver instant torque for climbs, regenerative braking for descents, and traction control for slippery slopes — ensuring smooth, efficient performance across every terrain.
The high strength steel chassis adds to this by keeping the vehicle balanced and predictable, especially while negotiating continuous hairpin bends. With a motor tuned for sustained output and braking that responds consistently, the Nexus remains manageable even on steep climbs. These aspects have been observed over multiple endurance runs and record attempts, and the Kolli Hills ascent serves as another real-world example of how the scooter holds up under demanding conditions.
The recognition by the Asia Book of Records is a first for Greaves Electric Mobility, reinforcing its commitment for India-built products which can cater to the world. With a market presence in Nepal and developing presence in Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Africa, this recognition validates the brand’s endurance, capability and durability.
Furthermore, it reinforces the company’s belief that adoption is driven by real-world experience. As electric two-wheelers move beyond city limits, this milestone demonstrates that vehicles engineered for Indian roads are capable of performing consistently even in demanding and rugged terrain. Built to outlast, outperform and outshine, Greaves Electric Mobility’s products continue to prove their capability across conditions that reflect how India truly rides.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
6, Feb 2026
Senores’ Dr. Anar Modi Honoured Among India’s U40 Entrepreneurs by Avendus Wealth Hurun
Feb 6: Dr. Anar Modi has been featured in the prestigious Avendus Wealth Hurun India Uth Series 2025 U40 List, a recognition that celebrates India’s most promising entrepreneurs under the age of 40 who are shaping the nation’s future through vision, resilience and scale.

The Avendus Wealth Hurun India Uth Series is a merit-based platform that honours young leaders building impactful businesses at an early stage, while demonstrating long-term thinking, governance and responsible leadership. Dr. Modi’s inclusion in the U40 list highlights her entrepreneurial excellence and contribution to India’s evolving business ecosystem.
As Chief Heart Officer at Senores, she leads people-centric initiatives focused on empathy, mental wellbeing, and holistic employee development. Along with that she also leads the CSR department of the organization.
The first edition of the Uth Series felicitation ceremony was held on January 29, 2026, at the Four Seasons Hotel, Worli, Mumbai. The evening brought together achievers from across industries, celebrating their role in India’s growth story and recognising those setting new benchmarks for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Speaking on the recognition, Dr. Anar Modi said,
“It is a privilege to be recognised among entrepreneurs who are reshaping the landscape of leadership and innovation in India. This honour reaffirms my belief that when growth is guided by purpose and responsibility, it leads to impact that truly endures.”
The Uth Series continues to spotlight trailblazers whose journeys reflect ambition balanced with accountability, and innovation driven by purpose.
6, Feb 2026
Ahmedabad to Host National Town & Country Planners Conference from February 6–8
Ahmedabad, India, Feb 6: After a gap of 13 years, Ahmedabad is set to host the National Town & Country Planners Conference from February 6 to 8, bringing together over 500 town planners, policymakers, academicians, and urban development experts from across India to deliberate on the future of regional and urban planning.

Organised by the Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI) with support from the Gujarat Government’s Urban Development Department, the three-day conference will be held on the theme “Proactive Regional Planning and Development to Usher Viksit Bharat.” The event will spotlight emerging perspectives on high-speed rail (bullet train) integration, along with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and GIS-based tools in urban and regional planning.
K. Srinivas, Secretary, Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, will attend as the Chief Guest at the inaugural session. Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha Jain and former Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Keshav Verma will be the Guests of Honour.
The conference comes at a critical juncture for India’s urban transformation, as the country’s urban population is projected to reach 600 million by 2031, accounting for nearly 40% of the total population, with 68 cities expected to cross the 10-lakh population mark. These trends underscore the urgency for balanced, sustainable, and forward-looking regional planning frameworks.
Speaking on the occasion, Pradeep Kapoor, President, ITPI, said,
“As India advances towards its goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, proactive regional planning is essential to manage the pressures of rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion. This conference will serve as a national platform to exchange ideas, learn from successful planning models, and evolve strategies for inclusive and balanced regional development.”
N.K. Patel, Patron and Past President, ITPI, highlighted that the conference will place special emphasis on spatial planning for balanced growth, climate-resilient infrastructure, economic corridor and industrial cluster development, urban-rural continuum management, and institutional mechanisms for effective regional governance, including Metropolitan Planning Committees, Regional Plan Authorities, and inter-state coordination for river basins and economic regions.
R.J. Rawal, Chairman of the Gujarat Regional Chapter of ITPI, presented an overview of ITPI and outlined the objectives and structure of the National Conference.
Key sub-themes of the conference include inclusive infrastructure planning for global events such as the Commonwealth Games proposed to be hosted in Ahmedabad in 2030, AI-driven planning applications, and 100 years of town planning schemes in Gujarat.
Ahmedabad’s metropolitan region will serve as a living case study, with focused discussions on landmark developments such as Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), GIFT City, the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), Metro Rail connectivity, major industrial and automobile hubs including Sanand and Becharaji, the Government of Gujarat’s newly announced satellite town policy, and emerging opportunities in integrated regional development.
Deliberations will address policy frameworks, governance models, and implementation strategies to manage rapid urbanisation while ensuring equitable growth. Sessions will also explore planning support for major economic corridors such as DMIC and Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC), strengthening urban-rural linkages through initiatives like AMRUT 2.0, and building climate-resilient infrastructure systems.
With a presence across 26 states and a professional base of over 10,000 town planners, ITPI continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s town and country planning discourse. Adani Cement is the preferred brand partner for the conference.
6, Feb 2026
Valentine’s Day Gifting: Smart Travel Picks by LUGGIT for Couples on the Move
This Valentine’s Day, couples are being encouraged to move beyond predictable gifting and choose presents that truly journey with them. LUGGIT, a smart travel and lifestyle brand, is spotlighting a curated range of intelligent luggage and bags designed for couples who value innovation, security, and contemporary design in their everyday travels.
Blending cutting-edge technology with sleek aesthetics, LUGGIT’s products are built to complement modern lifestyles—whether navigating busy airports, heading out on date nights, or planning spontaneous weekend getaways.
Featured Valentine’s Day Picks from LUGGIT:
LUGGIT Smart Electric Ride-On Trolley Bag
Designed for frequent flyers and travel enthusiasts, this futuristic trolley features smart electric ride-on functionality for effortless movement through crowded airports. Its premium construction and standout design make travel smoother and more stylish.
LUGGIT Traveler’s Shield – Bio-Matrices Unlocking Sling Bag
Compact, sleek, and highly secure, this sling bag comes equipped with advanced bio-matrices unlocking technology to protect essentials on the go. Ideal for travel days, concerts, casual outings, and date nights.
LUGGIT Signature Shield – Advanced Fingerprint Lock Vegan Leather Multi-Purpose Bag
Crafted from premium vegan leather, this versatile bag combines ethical luxury with advanced fingerprint lock security. Suitable for work, travel, and lifestyle use, it’s designed for partners who value conscious fashion choices.
LUGGIT BioShield Lifestyle Backpack with Advanced Bio-Matrices Unlocking
Built for modern professionals and travellers, this backpack offers biometric security, ample storage, and ergonomic comfort—making it perfect for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike.
This Valentine’s Day, LUGGIT invites couples to gift smarter journeys and shared adventures—celebrating love through innovation, security, and thoughtful design that travels every step of the way.
5, Feb 2026
Ray-Ethnic comes up with the Valentines Edit : Love the way women always have done it.
This Valentine’s Day, love doesn’t need grand gestures. At Ray Ethnic, it’s found in intention, craftsmanship, and stories stitched into every piece of gifts that feel lived-in, meaningful, and made to last.

Three Pieces, One Love Language
1. Aakruti Rust Ajarakh Cotton Dress Ray-Ethnic -Timeless in form and effortless in feel, this rust mul mul cotton dress is crafted in soft, breathable cotton with handcrafted Ajarakh prints and fine embroidery. Designed for comfort and everyday elegance, it’s the kind of piece that feels special without trying too hard—perfect for Valentine moments and beyond.
2. Indian Summer Rust Printed Kota Dress – A gentle mix of rust, purple, and yellow brings this dress to life. With intricate florals and a fluid silhouette, it’s made to move easily through days that feel a little more special.
Where colour meets calm vibrant hues, delicate florals, and an effortless flow, finished with a quiet Valentine charm.
3. Raysham Red Block Printed Munga Silk – This Valentine’s Day, let rich textures and timeless details do the talking. Crafted in tussar munga silk, this deep red kurta set features gold khat embroidery and classic block prints, paired with fluid layers for an understated, heartfelt look.
Why it best for valentine day Ray Ethnicalentine’s Day is about choosing with intention, and pieces crafted with care, comfort, and timeless detail make the most meaningful gifts. Rooted in artisanal techniques, rich fabrics, and thoughtful silhouettes, each choice feels personal, meant to be worn, lived in, and remembered long after the day has passed. It’s a softer, more thoughtful way to celebrate love
5, Feb 2026
Raffles Hotels & Resorts Unveils the Raffles Sirmour Cup 2026 at Raffles Jaipur
Jaipur, Feb 05: Raffles Hotels & Resorts officially unveiled the Raffles Sirmour Cup 2026 during an intimate and elegant ceremony held at Raffles Jaipur, marking the commencement of one of Jaipur’s most anticipated sporting highlights of the season. Hosted in association with the Rajasthan Polo Club, the evening paid tribute to the enduring legacy of polo, royal heritage, and sporting excellence.
The unveiling ceremony brought together an esteemed gathering of patrons, polo enthusiasts, and leaders from the world of luxury hospitality. The trophy was revealed by Maharaj Narendra Singh ji of Jaipur, alongside Th. Digvijay Singh, Honorary Secretary, Rajasthan Polo Club, and Kr Vikramaditya Singh Barkana, Joint Secretary, Rajasthan Polo Club. The occasion was further graced by the presence of the cup owners Mr. Ratan Kant Sharma and Mrs. Jui Sharma, and senior Raffles leadership including Mr. Rajat Sethi, Cluster General Manager, Raffles and Fairmont Jaipur, and Mr. Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager, Raffles Udaipur.
Deeply rooted in royal patronage, polo has long been an intrinsic part of Rajasthan’s cultural and sporting identity. Established under the patronage of the Royal Family of Jaipur, the Rajasthan Polo Club continues to uphold this legacy by hosting premier tournaments that draw national and international attention. The Raffles Sirmour Cup, a prestigious 14-goal tournament scheduled from 9 to 15 February 2026, stands as a defining feature of the Jaipur Polo Season.
For Raffles Hotels & Resorts, the Sirmour Cup represents more than a sporting collaboration. It reflects a shared reverence for heritage, discipline, and craftsmanship—values central to the brand’s philosophy of gracious and thoughtful hospitality. Unveiling the trophy within the palace-inspired setting of Raffles Jaipur offered guests a glimpse into the quieter, reflective moments that precede great sporting occasions.
As the polo season unfolds, the Raffles Sirmour Cup 2026 promises a week where tradition meets contemporary refinement, celebrating the spirit of the sport with understated elegance both on and off the field.
Commenting on the occasion, Rajat Sethi, Cluster General Manager, Raffles and Fairmont Jaipur, said,
“The Sirmour Cup holds a special place in Jaipur’s sporting calendar. Unveiling the trophy at Raffles Jaipur was our way of honouring the quiet moments that come before the game begins. It allows us to bring guests closer to the spirit of polo and the heritage that surrounds it, in a way that feels thoughtful and true to the city.”
Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager, Raffles Udaipur, added,
“Our association with the Sirmour Cup is grounded in continuity and culture. Supporting a tournament nurtured over generations aligns naturally with the values of Raffles, where experiences are shaped by heritage and delivered with quiet confidence.”
Sharing his perspective, Th. Digvijay Singh, Honorary Secretary, Rajasthan Polo Club, said,
“The Rajasthan Polo Club has always stood for the preservation and promotion of the sport in its most authentic form. Our continued association with Raffles brings a shared sense of respect and values to the tournament, and we look forward to a season that celebrates skill, sportsmanship, and the enduring legacy of polo.”
The Raffles Sirmour Cup 2026 stands poised to reaffirm Jaipur’s position as a centre of polo excellence, blending heritage, hospitality, and high-calibre sport in a celebration of timeless tradition.
5, Feb 2026
Cuddle Season Is Here: Ultra Soft Toys Celebrates Valentine Week with Loveable Plushies
Mumbai, India, Feb 05: Valentine Week has evolved into more than a single-day celebration, becoming a series of moments defined by emotion, comfort, and meaningful connection. This season, Ultra Soft Toys, a trusted name in the Indian soft toy industry, curates a thoughtfully designed Valentine Week collection that reflects how love is increasingly expressed through warmth, companionship, and gifts that last well beyond February 14.

As consumers seek gifting options with emotional depth and longevity, plush toys continue to emerge as one of the most resonant categories during Valentine’s Week. Ultra Soft Toys’ Valentine Week range is designed to accompany every phase of the celebration, from Rose Day through Valentine’s Day, aligning with changing consumer behaviour that favours comfort-driven, sentimental gifting over fleeting trends.
The collection brings together a diverse selection of plush designs crafted to suit different expressions of love. Classic Be My Valentine and Love You teddy bears cater to Promise and Propose Day moments, offering timeless silhouettes paired with heartfelt messaging. For Hug Day and everyday comfort, lying and sitting teddy bears holding red hearts deliver soft, huggable reassurance. Adding a lighter touch, playful plush dogs and lion soft toys introduce charm and warmth, while compact options such as cap teddy bears and hanging white teddies function as keepsakes that blend easily into personal spaces. For those seeking an alternative to traditional designs, the plush elephant with a ‘Hug Me’ heart offers a distinctive expression of affection.
The Valentine Week focus also arrives at a significant moment for India’s toy industry, which is steadily positioning itself as a global manufacturing and design hub. Valued at close to USD 2 billion and projected to grow substantially over the next decade, the sector continues to see strong demand for plush toys, particularly during festive and occasioned retail cycles. Valentine Week remains one of the most sentiment-driven periods for the category, driven by consumers’ preference for gifts that feel personal, soothing, and enduring.
Speaking on evolving gifting preferences, Ms. Brinda Agrawal, Head of Product Development at Ultra Soft Toys and Marketing Head at Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, shared,
“Valentine Week today is about meaningful connections rather than grand gestures. Plush toys offer emotional comfort and a sense of presence that people naturally relate to. When thoughtfully designed and made in India, they also represent care, trust, and craftsmanship, values that resonate strongly with today’s consumers.”
Ultra Soft Toys, part of the Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, reflects the growing strength of the Make in India movement within the toy sector. Designed and manufactured in India, the brand places strong emphasis on safe materials, soft textures, and thoughtful detailing, factors that have helped it build trust among consumers across age groups. Its Valentine Week collection underscores how locally made products can successfully combine quality, emotional relevance, and retail appeal.
Beyond its core plush portfolio, Ultra Soft Toys has also been actively developing custom and licensed plush solutions for leading brands across the hospitality and personal care segments, including Starbucks and Cetaphil. These collaborations highlight the brand’s expertise in quality manufacturing, compliance standards, and brand-aligned design, further strengthening its position as a reliable partner for premium, purpose-led plush creations.
5, Feb 2026
ICAR–IARI–SMSF Hosts Seminar and Training on Regenerative Agriculture and Precision Farming
Seminar-cum-Training on Regenerative Agriculture and Precision Farming Organized under ICAR–IARI–SMSF Collaborative Project
A seminar-cum-training programme on “Regenerative Agriculture and precision Farming integration for sustainable production and climate resilience” was organized at Water Technology Centre, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, under the ICAR–IARI–SMSF collaborative project “Application of Advanced Technologies for Improved Productivity and Resource-Use Efficiency in Regenerative Agriculture Production Systems.”

The objective of the seminar-cum-training programme was to create awareness among farmers about regenerative agriculture and precision farming an approach aimed at restoring and improving soil health while sustaining crop productivity and farm profitability. Regenerative and precision farming agriculture emphasizes managing agricultural systems in ways that enhance natural soil processes, improve resource-use efficiency, and build resilience to climate extremes.
Dr. Sanjay Singh Rathore, Head, Division of Agronomy, emphasized the importance of conserving natural resources such as water and soil, stating that modern farming must be guided by both “Pani and Gyani” (water and knowledge). He highlighted that crop cultivation should be undertaken with the precise application of water, and that knowledge of advanced cultivation technologies will play a vital role in enhancing agricultural productivity and restoring soil health.
Dr. P. K. Sahoo, Head, Division of Agricultural Engineering, briefed the participants on the use of farm machinery in crop cultivation, covering operations from planting to harvesting. He also explained to the farmers the utilization of paddy straw through both in-situ and ex-situ management practices, including the processing of paddy straw.
Dr. Anchal Dass, Principal Scientist, Division of Agronomy, explained that crop diversification plays a vital role in improving soil fertility. He shared that it leads to better soil aggregation, increased organic matter, improved water infiltration and moisture retention. By strengthening soil functions, regenerative agriculture improves the farming system’s ability to withstand drought, heat stress, and erratic rainfall, making it a critical component of climate-resilient agriculture.
Ms. Anjali Makhija, CEO and Trustee, S M Sehgal Foundation (SMSF), highlighted the importance of regenerative agriculture in restoring ecological balance and strengthening long-term farm sustainability. She shared insights into SMSF’s initiatives focused on reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers, promoting crop residue management through such as Super Seeder machines, enhancing the inclusion of women farmers, advancing water-efficient irrigation practices, and supporting regenerative coffee cultivation in Karnataka.
Dr. P. S. Brahmanand, Director, Water Technology Centre, emphasized the role of climate-smart technologies in building resilient farming systems. Cautioning against the impacts of glacier melt and increasing water security challenges, he stressed a farmer-first approach.
Prof. T. K. Das, Division of Agronomy, and Dr. Livleen Shukla, Principal Scientist, Division of Microbiology, IARI, apprised the farmers about conservation tillage practices, weed management strategies, and crop residue management using decomposer technology.
The programme brought together over 130 participants, including scientists, farmers, practitioners, and representatives from non-governmental organizations. More than 60 farmers from Kaithal, Kurukshetra, Mahendragarh, Pingwan and Alwar actively participated, making the event highly interactive and practice-oriented.
A major highlight was the on-ground field visit, which enabled farmers to observe the functional models. During the visit, water-saving and precision-based technologies were demonstrated and explained by Dr. Anchal Dass, Dr. Arjun Singh, Shri Rajpal Singh, and Dr. Arti Bhatia at the IARI experimental fields. Farmers expressed great satisfaction with the field visit, noting that seeing the techniques in practice helped them better understand the new technologies.
A panel discussion on emerging innovations such as AI-based precision tools, smart irrigation sensors, smartphone applications, and cybersecurity in digital agriculture provided a platform for farmers to interact directly with agricultural scientists. Shri Chandrasekhar Banukule, Saguna Baug a progressive farmer practicing SRT-based regenerative and conservation agriculture, shared practical experiences, motivating fellow farmers to adopt sustainable, technology-enabled practices.
The seminar-cum-training programme successfully facilitated knowledge exchange between scientists and farmers, underscored the importance of technology-driven regenerative agriculture, and strengthened collaborative efforts toward sustainable agricultural production and climate resilience.
4, Feb 2026
World of Palates Sweetens the ‘Week of Love’ – Valentine’s Day with a Strawberry-Led Dessert Menu
This Valentine’s Day, World of Palates at CR2 Mall, Nariman Point is turning up the romance with a special dessert-forward celebration, inviting couples and dessert lovers alike to indulge in flavours that are playful, comforting and irresistibly indulgent. Known for its globally inspired vegetarian offerings, the restaurant is marking the season of love with a limited-edition Valentine’s dessert menu that puts strawberries centre stage.

Designed to be shared, savoured and swooned over, the menu highlights three delightful creations that perfectly capture the spirit of Valentine’s Day. The Strawberry Matilda Cake is a showstopper—rich, moist and layered with luscious strawberry goodness, making it a must-order for anyone celebrating love over dessert. Equally indulgent is the Strawberry Milkshake, a classic favourite elevated with creamy textures and fresh berry notes, ideal for couples looking to sip on something sweet together.
Adding a lighter yet equally exciting option to the lineup is the Strawberry & Cream Cheese Smoothie Bowl. Fresh, vibrant and beautifully balanced, this bowl blends fruity freshness with creamy richness, offering a refreshing twist for those who prefer their Valentine’s treats on the wholesome side without compromising on indulgence.
Whether it’s a casual date, a post-dinner dessert stop or a sweet surprise for someone special, World of Palates’ Valentine’s offerings are crafted to make moments feel memorable. The warm, welcoming ambience of the restaurant further sets the mood, making it an inviting spot to celebrate love in all its forms.
With its playful strawberry creations and signature approach to flavour, World of Palates invites guests to end their Valentine’s Day on a sweet note where every bite feels like a little celebration of love.
4, Feb 2026
A Valentine’s Day Crafted with Love: Celebrate Romance with Choko La’s Artisanal Chocolates, Cakes & Gifting
Feb 04: This Valentine’s Day, Choko La invites couples, friends, and families to celebrate love in its most indulgent form with a thoughtfully curated collection of artisanal chocolates, celebratory cakes, and bespoke gifting experiences. Designed to complement every kind of love story, the Valentine’s collection blends craftsmanship, emotion, and premium presentation—making every gift feel truly special.
