Category Archives: News

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Promotes Environmental Sustainability and Community Welfare Through 30th iCARE Event

Bangalore, 4th October2024: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the successful completion of its 30th ‘I Community Action To Reach Everyone’ (iCARE) activity, an employee volunteering program, held at Irregowdana Lake in Bidadi. This event is in synergy with National Clean Up Day which is observed annually on 21st September. The clean & green drive around the Irregowdana lake saw active participation from around 200 volunteers, including TKM employees and their families, who came together to contribute to the cause of a cleaner and greener environment. National Clean Up Day is dedicated to raising environmental awareness and fostering community engagement in maintaining clean and sustainable public spaces.

In the event, the volunteers undertook a comprehensive clean-up of the lake area, collecting plastic and non-plastic waste from the surroundings. The initiative focused on enhancing the lake’s surroundings, reducing pollution, and safeguarding the local ecosystem. Alongside the clean-up efforts, participants also planted 300-350 mature saplings along the lake bund, enriching the biodiversity and contributing to a more sustainable future.

National Clean Up Day serves as a nationwide call to action, promoting environmental awareness and encouraging communities across India to come together to keep public spaces clean and sustainable. By organizing the lake cleanup and sapling plantation around this period, TKM reinforced its commitment to this important cause, fostering greater community involvement and emphasizing the importance of collective action in preserving natural resources. The event concluded with an experience-sharing session where volunteers reflected on their contributions and the importance of collective action in achieving environmental sustainability.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “The iCARE initiative is our employee volunteering program and is a testament to our commitment to creating a positive impact in the communities we operate in. Through collective efforts in areas like environmental conservation, we are not just fostering a sense of responsibility among our employees and their families but also contributing to the well-being of society. Over the years, we have seen remarkable enthusiasm from the volunteers, who have contributed to impactful projects in education, skill development, disaster management, and environmental conservation. The success of the 30th iCARE event, in alignment with National Clean Up Day, reaffirms our belief that every small step towards sustainability can lead to meaningful improvements. We remain dedicated to empowering our workforce to engage in meaningful actions that resonate with our core values of respect for the planet and community development.”

Since its launch in 2017, the iCARE initiative has garnered tremendous participation, with over 2,490 employees involved in more than 29 diverse projects. These efforts encompass critical areas such as education, environmental conservation, road safety and skill development. This collective endeavour has not only provided enriching experiences for employees but also positively impacted the lives of over 64,000 community members. iCARE exemplifies TKM’s commitment to empowering and inspiring its workforce to engage in meaningful actions that uplift communities and reflect their dedication to social responsibility.

Blue Dart to Implement General Price Increase w.e.f. January 1st, 2025

Hyderabad, October 4, 2024: Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia’s premier express air and integrated transportation and distribution express logistics company, part of the DHL Group, today announced its General Price Increase (GPI), effective from January 1st, 2025. The average price increase will be in the range of 9% to 12%, depending on product variabilities and the shipping profile.

In its ongoing commitment to delivering reliable and efficient logistics solutions, Blue Dart conducts a comprehensive annual review of its pricing structure. This essential decision ensures the continued provision of quality service while fostering sustainable ecosystem collaboration. The pricing adjustments for 2025, which include inflationary adjustments and cost rationalization, are designed to partly cover spiralling long-term costs, such as rising input costs to operations, including but not limited to airline operating costs and infrastructure costs, while also supporting customers with customized and seamless deliveries. These measures help uphold Blue Dart’s high standards amidst inflationary pressures, complexities in the global supply chain, and dynamic changes in the domestic landscape. By proactively addressing these challenges, Blue Dart aims to sustain exceptional service for its customers and effectively support its partners.

Balfour Manuel, Managing Director of Blue Dart, commented on the announcement: “As we step into 2025, we remain committed to delivering exceptional, reliable services. This price adjustment is essential for sustaining our operational excellence while continuing to offer solutions centered on the needs of our stakeholders. In conjunction with our annual price adjustment, we are also mobilizing investments to expand our network, adopt the latest technologies, and enhance our service offerings. We are primed to capitalize on new opportunities and deliver even greater value to our customers and stakeholders.”

As the trade facilitator for prominent organizations in key sectors such as e-commerce, healthcare, automobiles, consumer electronics, and BFSI (banking, financial services, and insurance), Blue Dart continues to set industry standards. The company’s ongoing expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) fleet reflects its commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. Additionally, Blue Dart stands as a frontrunner in harnessing drone technology for commercial use in the logistics sector.

Agilus Diagnostics welcomes Anil Kapoor as Brand Ambassador

October 4, 2024, Mumbai/Gurugram: Agilus Diagnostics Ltd., India’s largest diagnostic company, proudly announces the appointment of celebrated superstar actor Anil Kapoor as the company’s official brand ambassador. Following the launch of its new brand identity in 2023, this partnership will further strengthen Agilus’ positioning and enhance customer engagement across India.

Anil Kapoor, a legendary actor renowned for his timeless appeal, fitness, and enduring presence in the film industry, perfectly embodies the values that Agilus stands —integrity, trust, and excellence. His persona aligns seamlessly with the company’s mission of promoting a healthier India through advanced diagnostic services, making him the perfect choice to represent the brand as it deepens its connection with customers across the nation.

Speaking on the association, Mr. Anand K, Managing Director & CEO of Agilus Diagnostics Ltd., said “We are thrilled to welcome Anil Kapoor to the Agilus Diagnostics family. His dynamic and evergreen image aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering high-quality diagnostic services that empower individuals to lead healthier lives. Agilus Diagnostics is more than just a provider of routine and preventive tests. While we lead in preventive care, what truly distinguishes us is our focus on specialized testing driven by advanced diagnostic technologies. This partnership marks an exciting chapter in our brand’s journey, and we are confident that Anil Kapoor’s association will significantly enhance our brand visibility and customer engagement.”

Anil Kapoor shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “I am honoured to be associated with Agilus Diagnostics, a company playing a vital role in enhancing diagnostics and wellness across India. Agilus Diagnostics has been a trusted diagnostic partner for me and my family for many years, making this partnership even more special. Their commitment to innovation, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate customer care sets them apart, helping millions of people in India and internationally prioritise their health. The upcoming campaign, ‘Khud ko test karte raho’ (Keep Testing Yourself), encourages people to take proactive control of their health—a message I deeply resonate with. Together, we will inspire more individuals to make regular health check-ups a priority, empowering them to care for their well-being and that of their families.”

Mr. Piyush Jain, Chief of Marketing and Digital at Agilus Diagnostics, shared his thoughts on the collaboration, stating: “This partnership is a perfect fit: a legacy actor joining forces with Agilus, a legacy brand in diagnostics with over 29 years of excellence, a network of 410+ labs, 4,000 customer touchpoints, and a presence in more than 1,000 cities. Anil Kapoor’s commitment to health and fitness perfectly aligns with our campaign tagline, ‘Khud ko test karte raho.’ We believe this association will greatly enhance brand recall and strengthen our brand value. We are excited to launch our 360° campaign and look forward to the positive impact it will have on customer engagement and outreach.”

A creative work of Double Barrel Communications Pvt Ltd, the Big Idea was based on the insight that everyone faces tests in their lives, and it is only through taking tests head-on that you emerge better and stronger. “‘Khud ko test kartey raho’ will prove to be an enduring brand statement. It is an idea that can be progressively built on over the years” says Neelesh Phadnis, Founder, Double Barrel Communications

As Agilus Diagnostics embarks on a new chapter in its brand journey, it blends its legacy of trust and innovation with Anil Kapoor’s timeless appeal and commitment to health, further cementing its position as India’s most trusted diagnostics brand.

LeapScholar Survey: 57% of Students Pursuing International Education from State Boards, 34% Female

National, 4 October 2024: LeapScholar, South Asia’s largest end-to-end study abroad platform, today released its “Application-based Survey 2024”. The survey shows that Indian students are breaking conventional boundaries to pursue their dream of studying abroad.

Contrary to popular belief, that students from international/ICSE and CBSE boards have exposure to and aspirations for studying abroad, Leap’s new survey suggests that students from local State Boards are equally enthusiastic about pursuing global education. This points towards inclusion of a broader and more diverse demographic, with aspirations for international study traveling beyond conventional backgrounds and ethnicities. Furthermore, with females constituting a significant portion of this trend (34%), it highlights how women in India are breaking stereotypes and leading the way on global education.

The survey also reveals a shift in destination preferences and subject areas of interest. While top destinations like Canada, UK, US remain the top choices, Indian students are increasingly looking beyond these destinations, with Japan and the Netherlands emerging as exciting new options. The survey also shows that STEM courses, although still popular, are no longer the only draw for international students. Instead, students are exploring a range of subjects, including Psychology, Law, Sport Sciences, Architecture, Building, and Planning, Performing Arts, and Social Sciences, indicating a desire for a more well-rounded and diverse educational experience.

“The survey is a sign that Indian students are becoming more ambitious and forward-thinking in their approach to look for what is best for them. We feel inspired by the growing aspirations of the Indian students, particularly those from State Boards, who are now considering and embracing studying abroad like never before. We also feel very good to see female students leading the charge. This shift not only reflects the increasing accessibility of studying abroad but also the changing mindset of Indian students, who are now more open to exploring unconventional ways of learning.” said, Arnav Kumar, Co-founder, Leap.

The surge in aspirations among State Board students can be attributed to rapid digital penetration in the country, increased accessibility and growing awareness about international study opportunities. Additionally, the widespread availability of online resources and education platforms has democratized access to information, allowing students to explore international education options more easily.

Other key findings from the survey include:

Indian students are increasingly looking beyond traditional study abroad destinations, with Japan and the Netherlands emerging as exciting new choices. Traditional favorites Canada, UK, and US remain the top choices for international students

While STEM courses continue to be popular among international students, the survey reveals the top trending subject areas among students pursuing higher education abroad includes, Psychology, Law, Sport Sciences, Architecture, building and planning, Performing arts, Social sciences

Jharkhand Health Minister Banna Gupta to Inaugurate East Zone Regional Abilympics 2024 Celebrating Vocational Skills of 200+ Divyang

Jamshedpur, India – October 10, 2024 – The East Zone Regional Abilympics 2024, organized by the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI), is set to take place at Tata Steel Technical Institute, Burma Mines on October 3rd and 4th in Jamshedpur (Jharkhand). Shri. Banna Gupta Hon. Health Minister of Jharkhand will be the chief guest at the inauguration. This prestigious event aims to celebrate the exceptional skills and talents of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) from across Eastern India. Abilympics, known as the Olympics of Abilities, serves as a global platform where PwDs can demonstrate their vocational skills and showcase their ability to compete at both national and international levels. The Abilympics not only focuses on empowering PwDs through skills but also highlights the larger issue of employment opportunities. Skill development programs and events like these open doors to various sectors, including IT, hospitality, manufacturing, and even creative fields, where PwDs can excel with the right support.

Supported by prominent partners like Tata Power (TPCDT), Tata Steel Foundation, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, the event underscores a commitment to empowering PwDs through skill development and inclusion. These initiatives are vital for providing PwDs with the tools they need to achieve self-reliance and contribute to society.

East Zone edition has received an overwhelming response, with 405 entries received and out of which 200+ selected ones will be competing, highlighting the growing enthusiasm and participation in promoting vocational skills amongst PwDs. Participants will showcase their abilities in 15 skill categories, under ICT, Crafts, Food and Services from the Eastern States such as West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Odisha. For the first time, participants from Northeastern states like Assam and Meghalaya are joining the event, marking a significant milestone in the event’s expanding reach. Two participants from Assam and one from Meghalaya will take part, reflecting the growing inclusivity of the competition nationally. On this occasion, Tata group has undertaken a landmark initiative of organizing events like Neurodiversity Immersion Summit.

Key NGO partners such as Divyang Marg Darshan (Jamshedpur), Gaya Budham Sharnam (Gaya, Bihar), Bihar Abilympics Association (Patna, Bihar), and Sahaya-Special School for ID (Cuttack, Odisha) have been instrumental in training and preparing participants for this prestigious event. These organizations work tirelessly to bridge the gap between training and employment for PwDs, helping them unlock their potential.

Dr. Jitender Aggarwal, Secretary General, National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI) and Founder & CEO, Sarthak Educational Trust remarked, “The Regional Abilympics is a focused effort to promote vocational skills essential for PwDs to contribute to society. It also serves as a platform to showcase their talents on regional, national, and international stages.” He added, “It is a moment of pride when corporate entities welcome skilled employees and promote diversity in the workforce. With PwDs comprising over 5% of India’s population, this event emphasizes the importance of skill development as a pathway to employment, self-respect, and independence. Programs like the Abilympics help break down societal barriers, allowing PwDs to demonstrate their capabilities and inspiring corporate organizations to adopt more inclusive hiring practices. Companies such as Tata Power, Tata Steel, and others have already made strides in including PwDs in their workforce, showing the potential for wider change across industries”.

India created history at the 10th International Abilympics in Metz, France, in 2023 by securing seven medals with a small 13-member team. Now, as the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI) prepares for the selections for the 11th International Abilympics (2027) to be held in Finland, the East Zone Regional Abilympics in Jamshedpur will be a crucial step in the journey toward international recognition and pride.

Anup Gupta Appointed Chairman of Bombay Stock Exchange Brokers’ Forum

Mr. Anup Gupta

The Bombay Stock Exchange Brokers’ Forum (BBF) has appointed Mr. Anup Gupta as its new Chairman, effective September 30, 2024, succeeding Mr. Kishor Kansagra. Mr. Gupta, Director of Sykes & Ray Equities (I) Ltd., brings extensive financial expertise, including M&A, corporate finance, and derivatives. BBF represents over 650 securities broking firms in India and actively contributes to regulatory policy. It also engages globally through affiliations with international financial bodies and focuses on professional development and investor education.

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Marks 11 Years of Excellence Under Gaurav Sinha’s Leadership

Bengaluru, 04.10.2024: JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru proudly celebrates its 11th anniversary, marking over a decade of setting benchmarks in luxury hospitality. Since its inception in 2013, the hotel has been a symbol of elegance, renowned for its exceptional service, world-class amenities, and dedication to creating memorable experiences for its guests.

Over the past year, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has hosted a range of exciting F&B collaborations and promotions, showcasing global culinary delights. Highlights include the vibrant Thai and Tokyo flavors featured in Chef Seefah’s exclusive pop-up at UNO Izakaya and the ‘Monsoon Trail’ by Guestronomy MharoKhet, which brought a fresh twist to seasonal dining. Additionally, Comorin, Gurugram’s exclusive pop-up at the hotel, created a culinary storm, while the Sunday Brunch Odyssey offered a global gastronomic journey for guests. Furthermore, JW Marriott teamed up with Matamaal for “The Kashmiri Rhapsody,” a unique collaboration that brought the rich flavors of Kashmir to the city, combining culinary excellence with a captivating melodic experience.

The hotel has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. It meets 95-98% of its energy needs through wind power, energy-efficient appliances, optimized HVAC systems, and electrical hot water generators with heat pumps. Water conservation efforts include the addition of aerators, rainwater harvesting, and borewell recharging, with treated wastewater from the STP used for gardening and cooling towers. The hotel manages waste through an organic food waste converter and produces 2,500-3,000 glass bottles daily to replace single-use plastics. Community efforts include a hydroponic container for water-efficient produce and an EV charging station for guests.

As the hotel embarks on its 12th year, Mr. Gaurav Sinha, Hotel Manager, reflects on this milestone and the continued pursuit of excellence that has defined JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru’s journey. “Being part of Marriott’s global family is a privilege that comes with great responsibility,” says Mr. Gaurav Sinha. “At JW Marriott Bengaluru, we are committed to delivering luxury that is deeply personal and experiences that our guests will cherish. With an extraordinary team by my side, I am confident that our journey ahead will be even more rewarding, as we continue to innovate and raise the bar for hospitality in Bengaluru.”

Since opening its doors, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has been a beacon of luxury in the heart of the city. Known for its thoughtfully designed rooms, impeccable service, and culinary mastery, the hotel has been the destination of choice for travelers, corporate clients, and residents alike. From hosting prestigious events to curating personalized guest experiences, JW Marriott Bengaluru has consistently set the standard for hospitality in the region.

In its 11th year, the hotel continues to build on its legacy, maintaining a perfect blend of elegance and contemporary flair. Under Mr. Gaurav Sinha’s leadership, the hotel remains focused on enhancing the guest experience through innovation and world-class service, positioning itself as a leader in the luxury hospitality space.

“Our goal is not just to meet guest expectations but to exceed them at every touch point,” Mr. Sinha adds. “We’re passionate about providing unforgettable moments and setting the standard for luxury hospitality in the city.”

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru promotes diversity and inclusion by hiring from the LGBTQIA+ community and marginalized groups. Partnering with the SAATHIYA Foundation, the hotel provides training and job placements to underprivileged youth, resulting in six new hires, including one specially-abled individual. Leadership roles, such as the Cluster IT Manager and Housekeeping Manager, are held by LGBTQIA+ members, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to merit-based growth. The hotel also supports employees undergoing gender transitions and collaborates with brands like Lululemon for events such as “Sweat with Pride” to raise awareness. These initiatives position the hotel as a leader in diversity and inclusion in Indian hospitality.

Tender Floated for PR 7 Airport Road, Zirakpur Real Estate to Reap Benefits

In a major development that transforms Zirakpur’s connectivity, the PR 7 Airport Road has officially been floated for tender, paving the way for construction. Stalled 11 years ago, the road will boost the real estate market in the region, offering excellent connectivity and appreciation in property value.

The proposed 200-foot wide, six-lane bypass, running approximately 16.5 kilometres, will start from the Patiala-Zirakpur light point (Airport junction) and end at the old Panchkula light point. The road will also provide an alternate route from Panchkula to the New International Airport in Mohali, allowing traffic to avoid Chandigarh. The road will serve as an essential signal-free route linking Zirakpur, Panchkula, Mohali, and Chandigarh, thereby significantly boosting connectivity for residents of key residential projects in the area.

The real estate sector is optimistic about the positive impact this development will bring to the region. Prateek Mittal, Executive Director, Sushma Group, said, “With the PR-7 Airport Road project finally moving forward, the entire sector is looking forward to the tremendous growth this infrastructure will bring. This translates to enhanced connectivity for our residents at Sushma Valencia, and adds huge value to our other Residential and Commercial projects, like Sushma Belleza and Sushma Empiria, on this road.”

“The PR 7 Road will open up new avenues for growth and development, boosting the entire real estate market in Zirakpur. The sector is sure to see increased interest in areas that are now more accessible.” said Er. Aditya Aggarwal, Director – Sales and Marketing,El Spazia.

The PR-7 Airport Road is expected to be a key driver in boosting real estate growth in the region, with developers anticipating a sharp increase in demand for residential and commercial properties.

Piyush Kansal, Executive Director of Royale Estate Group, added, “The PR-7 Airport Road project is a major step toward enhancing connectivity in Zirakpur. This development will provide seamless access to key areas like Panchkula, Mohali, and Chandigarh, significantly improving residents’ ease of commuting. We believe this enhanced connectivity will greatly benefit both the community and ongoing regional developments.”

As infrastructure improves, the sector looks forward to a major boost to property values, making the region an attractive investment location for discerning buyers.

Autonom8 Partners with Matrix to Automate End-to-End Physical Audits

Chennai, 4th October 2024 – Autonom8, a GenAI-powered automation provider, partners with Matrix to automate its end-to-end physical audits. Matrix is a trusted name in the Audit and Business Assurance and Employee Background Verification space. It serves various industry verticals, including FMCG, Retail, Consumer Durables, IT, ITES/BPO and BFSI.

“Matrix was among the earliest players to adopt the use of a digital platform in the employee background verification space and continues to explore and accelerate digitisation opportunities across its services using valued partners like Autonom8” said Ravishankar P, Matrix CEO

With Autonom8’s Audit platform, Matrix automates the entire audit workflow—from task assignment to real-time tracking and comprehensive report generation. Auditors use a mobile app to capture on-site data, enabling instant verification and reporting, ultimately delivering faster, more precise results for their clients.

“The Autonom8 platform has transformed how we conduct audits, allowing us to enhance operational efficiency and improve data accuracy,” said Harini Harikrishna, Senior Vice President of Operations (Audit & Assurance) at Matrix. “From audit scheduling to instant reporting, the platform helps us provide high-quality insights to our clients faster than ever.”

Key features of the A8 Audit Platform for Matrix include:

• Audit Scheduling and Management: Effortlessly plan and organize audits with real-time tracking and timeline management.
• Mobile App for Auditors: Auditors conduct audits on the go, documenting findings, capturing photos, and uploading evidence directly through the app.
• Instant Reporting: Reports are generated instantly upon audit completion, providing clients with actionable insights.
• Comprehensive Evidence Storage: All audit data, including images and documents, are securely stored for easy retrieval and a clear audit trail.
• Dynamic Dashboards: Gain visibility into audit performance with dashboards that track status and trends and generate custom reports.

 The Benefits for Matrix:

• Efficiency: Administrative tasks are minimized, allowing auditors to focus on value-added activities.
• Accuracy: Real-time reporting and evidence storage reduce errors and inconsistencies.
• Transparency: Clients have instant access to detailed audit reports, providing full visibility into findings.
• Scalability: The platform scales easily, from single-location audits to nationwide operations.

 “Our platform’s end-to-end automation empowers Matrix to achieve greater efficiency and deliver high-quality audits to its clients,” said Anupama Raghunath, Director of Projects at Autonom8. “This partnership demonstrates how automation can transform traditional audit processes, enabling faster, more reliable outcomes.”

FFPL Wins Prestigious ‘Iconic Brands of India 2024’ at the 7th Edition of ET Now Iconic Brands of India Awards

Pune, 4th October 2024– Fleetguard Filters Pvt Ltd, a leading manufacturer of filtration products and solutions catering to On & Off highway applications, has been awarded the prestigious “Iconic Brands of India 2024” at the 7th Edition of ET Now Iconic Brands of India Awards held on 26th September 2024 at Mumbai. The award was received by Mr. Niranjan Kirloskar Managing Director Fleetguard Filters Private Limited along with Mr. Piush Srivastava Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications and Ms. Gauri Pansare Senior Executive from Corporate Communications.

The event celebrates brands that have driven national growth through innovation, sustainability, and global impact. Fleetguard’s inclusion highlights its commitment to excellence and leadership in the automotive sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Niranjan Kirloskar, Managing Director, Fleetguard Filters Private Limited (FFPL), said, “We are truly honored to be recognized among the Iconic Brands of India. This achievement reflects the dedication of our team and our commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable solutions to the automotive industry. We are committed to driving progress and setting new benchmarks in quality and service for our customers. Our focus has pivotally been bringing value to our customers which has been a driving force since inception. This award is a testimony of our team’s relentless efforts and a constant pursuit of growth always defying our own benchmarks in the industry.”

This recognition adds to Fleetguard’s growing list of accolades, further establishing its position as a leader in the automotive industry. The company remains dedicated to advancing innovation and providing solutions that consistently meet the changing needs of its customers.