Atmosphere Core Announces 10th Resort In India

Kolkata, 5th April 2024–Atmosphere Core, a leading figure in the hospitality industry, has entered into a Hotel Management Agreement with ‘JPR BHUMI DEVELOPERS’ proprietor of Avongrove Tea Estate to develop a luxury resort in Sukiapokhri, nestled in the Darjeeling Hills of West Bengal. AVONGROVE TEA GARDENS BY ATMOSPHERE MIRIK DARJEELING WEST BENGAL is scheduled to open in Q3-2026. The partnership aligns with Atmosphere Core’s goal of reaching 25 properties by 2025 in India, and the resort marks the company’s second venture in the Darjeeling districts of the state of West Bengal.

Travellers can look forward to 70 indulgent suites and villas and enjoy an experiential culinary journey at an all-day diner with alfresco-style service, a speciality restaurant, and a classic library bar. At an altitude of more than 5000 feet, it is a perfect setting for wellness and spa activities. Atmosphere Core will also bring to the resort, a nature-inspired tranquil spa and wellness centre through its award-winning spa brand ‘ELE|NA.’

This luxurious destination resort is perfect for leisure travellers seeking a peaceful retreat, as well as for hosting meetings, private celebrations, and weddings, with a 3,000 sq. ft indoor event space and a selection of outdoor venues.

Established in 1889, the Avongrove Tea Estate sprawls over 782 acres of lush greenery amidst the Himalayan slopes. Located a mere 15 kilometres from Mirik Lake and just a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Bagdogra International Airport, the estate offers a strategic and picturesque setting. The resort will be developed on 6 acres within the Avongrove Tea Estate, offering a panoramic 360-degree view of the tea garden. The architecturally sympathetic villas will be thoughtfully integrated into the Himalayan slopes, valleys, and forests, providing guests a sense of seclusion along with mesmerising views of the surrounding nature.

Darjeeling is a renowned destination for tourists from around the globe, offering stunning views of Mount Everest and Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. The town boasts a rich cultural tapestry, blending Nepali, Tibetan, and Bengali influences, which is evident in its festivals, cuisine, and architectural styles. This luxurious destination is perfect for leisure travellers seeking a tranquil escape, as well as for hosting memorable events be it business conferences or private celebrations.

Mr. Souvagya Mohapatra, Managing Director of Atmosphere Core – India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, & Bhutan, shared his enthusiasm, saying, “Renowned as the ‘Queen of the Hills’, the emerald slopes of the Darjeeling Hills have always captivated travellers with their timeless beauty. I am delighted to announce our second project in North Bengal in the region’s promising Darjeeling district, AVONGROVE TEA GARDENS BY ATMOSPHERE, which is set to become a highly coveted destination.”

Mr. Jitendra Kumar Mahto and Mrs. Rinku Kumari Mahto, Partners of JPR Bhumi Developers, conveyed excitement about partnering with Atmosphere Core for a strong and mutually beneficial business relationship. Recognising Atmosphere Core as a renowned brand, they are confident that the collaboration will elevate Avongrove Tea Estate into a world-class resort with exceptional services and experiences.

ShelterPoint Announces Leadership Succession

Garden City, NY, April 05, 2024 –Effective immediately, Richard White, who has led ShelterPoint Life Insurance Company (ShelterPoint) as CEO since 2009, is moving into the role of Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, with the company’s existing Chairman, Dr. Seth Goldberg, remaining on the Board as a Director. Leston Welsh, who joined ShelterPoint as President last April, is now stepping into the CEO role effective the same day. This announcement follows a thorough and thoughtful succession planning process conducted by the company.

“Serving as CEO at ShelterPoint has been a great honor and my favorite chapter of my career. Having gotten to know Leston over the time we have worked together, I am pleased that we found such a talented executive to take the lead as CEO. Leston has demonstrated a strong understanding of the culture that makes ShelterPoint a great organization, and I’m confident he will lead the company to even greater success over the coming years. I’m excited to expand my role on the Board where I’ll be able to support ShelterPoint during our next chapter of growth,” said Richard White.

“I am honored by the Board’s decision. It’s a privilege to step into this role, and I look forward to ensuring a smooth transition together with our experienced management team and dedicated employees,” added Leston Welsh.

Mr. Welsh brought a wealth of leadership experience from highly respected companies in the industry when he joined ShelterPoint – including Sun Life, Unum, Prudential, New York Life, and Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA). Mr. Welsh is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries.

BLS International Signs Agreement with Inspector General of Registration, Gandhinagar Govt. of Gujarat.

New Delhi, 5th April 2024 – BLS International Services Ltd, a globally renowned tech-enabled services provider, has been appointed by the Inspector General of Registration in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, to spearhead the ” Establishment and Running of Electronic Registration Centre” across 287 Sub-Registrar offices throughout the state of Gujarat on behalf of the Inspector General of Registration, Gandhinagar.

Under this project, BLS International will Procure, Install & Commission the Hardware across all 287 locations within Gujarat State, representing the Inspector General of Registration. Furthermore, the company will oversee the Deployment of manpower, management, and maintenance of manpower and hardware for a period of three years, with an option to extend for up to two additional years.

Commenting on this collaboration, Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International Ltd., said, “This venture with the Inspector General of Registration, Gandhinagar, marks a significant milestone in our continued commitment to enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of government services. By leveraging our expertise in technology and service management, we are set to revolutionize the way registrations are handled across Gujarat, making processes more streamlined for citizens and government offices alike. We’re honored to undertake this project and are excited about the positive impact it will have on the community.”

AHIM Names Workhouse as Agency of Record

New York, NY, April 05, 2024 –– Advanced Home Improvement Media (AHIM), the parent company of TheHomeMag, a trailblazer in the home improvement industry, driving innovation, shaping trends, and providing invaluable resources to homeowners and businesses alike, has appointed Workhouse as its Agency of Record. Effective immediately, Workhouse will lead AHIM’s integrated promotional campaigns, public relations initiatives, wholistic marketing, celebrity seeding, and creative content development efforts.

A distinguished public relations and integrated creative agency with 25 years of experience, Workhouse boasts an impressive track record of success, representing industry titans, Fortune 500 companies, real estate developers, and luxury automotives. Known for its forward-thinking approach to public relations, social media, and brand promotion, Workhouse is poised to elevate AHIM’s aggressive growth, brand visibility, and industry recognition through innovative and strategic marketing initiatives.

“We are thrilled to embark on this collaborative journey with Workhouse. With their expertise, we are confident in our ability to showcase the unique value proposition of our print and digital brands, connect with our audience on a deeper level, and drive meaningful results for our advertisers. Together, we are poised to revolutionize the way homeowners and businesses engage in the home improvement journey.” -Tom Bohn, President and COO, Advanced Home Improvement Media

Interested media who wish to learn more, and interview AHIM executives are invited to contact WORKHOUSE, CEO Adam Nelson via email nelson@workhousepr.com or telephone +1 212. 645. 8006.

The HomeMag: A Journey of Innovation and Growth
The journey of Sean and Debbie Campbell from South Africa to Southwest Florida symbolizes the epitome of entrepreneurial spirit and determination. Their story began with a bold vision to revolutionize the print publication landscape, which materialized into what is now known as TheHomeMag. Debbie’s relentless door-to-door sales pitches and Sean’s meticulous logistical prowess laid the foundation for TheHomeMag’s inception in 2002. Their perseverance paid off when the inaugural issue reached the mailboxes of 100,000 homes in Lee and Collier counties, marking the dawn of a transformative era.

The subsequent years saw TheHomeMag’s rapid expansion, with Corporate and franchise locations sprouting across the nation. By 2010, it had firmly established its presence in 36 markets across 15 states, a testament to its growing influence. Over the next decade, this growth trajectory continued, culminating in a staggering reach of 66 markets with 120 mailing zones in 29 states.

In 2023, under the dynamic leadership of President & COO Tom Bohn, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience leading and transforming organizations across various industries, TheHomeMag embarked on a digital transformation journey. Embracing the evolving landscape, the brand seamlessly integrated digital innovations while staying rooted in its core values. The launch of Inbox Advantage and Marketplace by TheHomeMag ushered in a new era of accessibility and convenience for homeowners seeking home improvement solutions. Tom’s strategic foresight, coupled with the unwavering dedication of the entire team, propelled TheHomeMag beyond its traditional print roots. It has now evolved into Advanced Home Improvement Media (AHIM), a dynamic force shaping the industry landscape.

Expanding Reach and Impact
Marketplace by TheHomeMag is a cutting-edge platform designed to seamlessly connect homeowners with trusted home service professionals. With an emphasis on quality and convenience, homeowners can easily discover and engage with certified professionals, ensuring their home improvement needs are met with precision and expertise. The platform not only facilitates connections but also inspires homeowners with remarkable home transformations showcased by industry experts. By joining Marketplace by TheHomeMag, professionals become part of an exclusive network, gaining unparalleled visibility and recognition as trusted authorities in their field.

Complementing Marketplace by TheHomeMag is Home-y AI, a 24/7 home improvement assistant powered by artificial intelligence. Home-y resides on AskHomey.com, providing homeowners with personalized assistance and prompt responses to their queries. With Home-y’s conversational support and insightful recommendations, homeowners can navigate their home improvement journey with ease and confidence. Home-y’s AI goes beyond assistance; it creates beautiful images to inspire homeowners’ next projects. Whether envisioning a kitchen remodel or backyard makeover, Home-y can show homeowners the possibilities, making their experience on our platform both informative and visually inspiring.

This dynamic duo of Marketplace by TheHomeMag and Home-y AI represents AHIM’s commitment to innovation, trust, and exceptional customer service, ushering in a new era of accessibility and inspiration in the home improvement industry.

In 2023, Advanced Home Improvement Media reaffirmed its confidence in the brand’s potential and the power of outstanding performance by strategically acquiring top-performing franchise markets. These acquisitions reflect AHIM’s commitment to enhancing its footprint and delivering exceptional value to homeowners and businesses across the nation. Among the standout franchise markets newly under AHIM’s corporate umbrella are Minneapolis/St. Paul, Des Moines, Charlotte, Greenville, Cleveland, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Pittsburgh. These markets have consistently demonstrated remarkable growth and profitability, embodying the spirit of innovation and excellence that defines AHIM’s mission. By integrating these high-performing markets into its corporate structure, AHIM aims to further elevate its industry leadership and continue driving impactful results for its stakeholders.

Today, Advanced Home Improvement Media (AHIM) is a multimedia resource for home improvement businesses and homeowners, comprising over 250 team members, with multiple key products, serving markets across the United States. AHIM’s ecosystem includes TheHomeMag magazine, Homeowner Direct, Inbox Advantage, and Marketplace by TheHomeMag, with plans to launch ThePetMag, catering to pet owners, offering invaluable insights and resources to pet owners nationwide. As the AHIM journey continues to unfold, it serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and unwavering dedication to excellence. With each milestone achieved and each new venture undertaken, AHIM reaffirms its position as a leader in the home improvement sector.

Kochi Metro Rail joins ONDC Network enhancing multimodal mobility experience

Kochi | 5th April 2024: Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is delighted to announce the addition of Kochi Metro Rail, one of the most reliable and sustainable public transport systems, to its expanding mobility domain. For some time, ONDC has been working with KMRL to facilitate the purchase of Kochi Metro tickets using various applications on the ONDC Network, ensuring a seamless and innovative approach to urban mobility. Following the successful integration of Chennai Metro, Kochi Metro Rail now becomes the second metro service to join the ONDC Network, a crucial step in revolutionizing urban transportation.

Starting from April 4th, 2024, commuters can conveniently purchase single journey and return journey tickets for the Kochi Metro through four buyer apps on the ONDC Network: Yatri, Paytm, Rapido, and redBus. Additionally, customers can also book tickets on the PhonePe app. In future, customers will be able to book tickets from Google Maps, Uber, and EaseMyTrip among others.

Furthermore, any new buyer app joining the ONDC Network will have immediate access to Kochi Metro’s ticket inventory, enhancing customer choice and convenience.

Chief guest Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, and Dr. Bejoy John, Director, Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT), graced the occasion along with other esteemed dignitaries to officially onboard Kochi Metro Rail on the ONDC Network.

Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT), said, “Integration of Kochi Metro Rail with ONDC, is about crafting a future where digital inclusivity makes urban transport not just a journey, but an experience tailored for every citizen. It’s a step forward in our mission to digitize and streamline urban transit, making it more accessible and efficient for everyone.”

Dr. Bejoy John, Director, the Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT), said, “This initiative accelerates our vision for a seamless digital ecosystem, directly benefiting commuters and setting a precedent for future urban transport strategies. It’s a prime example of how government-led digital initiatives can transform everyday services for the public, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable urban mobility ecosystem.”

T. Koshy, MD & CEO, ONDC, said, “The integration of Kochi Metro Rail onto the ONDC Network marks a significant milestone in our journey towards revolutionizing urban mobility. By enabling seamless access to multimodal transportation and ancillary services, we are empowering commuters with an unparalleled travel experience. As we move forward, it is exciting to witness newer entities joining the Open Network, ultimately creating an ecosystem wherein everything whether it’s metro tickets, auto booking, cab bookings, grocery shopping, etc – is available in one Open Network.”

Loknath Behera, Managing Director, Kochi Metro Rail Limited, said, “We are thrilled to join the Open Network to enhance the commuting experience of metro travelers. This integration aligns perfectly with our mission to provide seamless, sustainable transportation solutions to the people of Kochi. Now our ticketing services will be available through a diverse range of buyer apps on the ONDC Network, a significant step towards upgrading accessibility and convenience for our valued commuters. We look forward to working closely with ONDC to explore innovative possibilities, including multimodal journeys and ancillary services, to elevate the overall travel experience in our city.”

The inclusion of Kochi Metro Rail on the ONDC Network marks a significant stride towards creating a comprehensive digital multimodal transit system. With the city’s sustainable transportation modes, commuters can enjoy a seamless journey combining various modes of transport, such as First Mile (Auto), Middle Mile (Metro Rail), and Last Mile (Auto), all accessible through the Network.

ONDC Network fosters faster digitization, enabling metros to join as sellers and provide their ticket inventory to buyer apps. Buyer apps with consumer bases joining the ONDC Network, gain access to all metros on the Network with a single integration. This streamlined process not only benefits commuters but also paves the way for further innovation, such as the integration of ancillary services. Users can conveniently purchase food, groceries, and other necessities while on the move, timing their shopping to align with their journey.

Abhay Sharma, Chief Business Officer of Payments at Paytm, said, “We are excited to work with ONDC to introduce QR-based ticketing for Kochi Metro. This initiative underscores our dedication to delivering innovative and user-friendly solutions to millions of travelers. Our goal is to make the travel experience for Kochi Metro passengers smoother and more convenient. As pioneers of QR code payments in India, we view Kochi as a critical market, reflecting our commitment to improving travel convenience in major urban areas.”

Yuvraj Singh Shekhawat, Chief Business Officer – Merchant Business at PhonePe said, “We’re pleased to support the collaboration between ONDC and Kochi Metro, allowing commuters to book their QR tickets digitally. In the Switch section of the PhonePe app, commuters can conveniently book their tickets without the long wait times often associated with ticket booking. This use case marks a significant milestone in our efforts to establish a digital ticketing and payments ecosystem for the transit segment.”

Pavan Guntupalli, Co-founder of Rapido, said, “Rapido has always been at the forefront of innovation in transportation services, and we are thrilled to embark on a transformative journey in Kochi by introducing metro ticket bookings on our app. Our commitment to redefining the commuting experience aligns seamlessly with this exciting integration with the government-backed Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). By leveraging the extensive reach and reliability of Rapido’s platform, we anticipate that at least 15% of metro tickets in Kochi will be seamlessly purchased through our app. Now, with the integration of metro ticket bookings, we are not just facilitating a transaction; we are enhancing the overall commuting experience for the people of Kochi.”

Prakash Sangam, CEO of redBus commented “We are pleased to support ONDC and Kochi Metro in shaping the future of mobility. ONDC’s dedication to revolutionizing the e-commerce network is aligned with our vision of a digitally empowered India. We are excited to be part of ONDC’s journey as it adds Kochi Metro to its network and sets new standards in consumer convenience and choice. Together, we are creating better first and last-mile travel experiences for Kochi’s citizens.”

Shan M S, Chief Growth Officer, Juspay, said, “Yatri’s vision is to make public transport as convenient as booking a cab. Since 2020, we’ve committed to this transformation of making every journey in Kochi part of the Open Network. We’re proud to be at the forefront of urban mobility in Kochi, integrating first and last-mile connectivity with Kochi Metro through ONDC. With over 10,000 Yatri drivers, customers can now seamlessly book autos, cabs, and metro tickets all in one place. This is a major step towards India’s vision of creating an efficient, sustainable, and community-centered urban mobility ecosystem.”

Mr. Rikant Pittie, Co-founder of EaseMyTrip, expressed, “The integration of EaseMyTrip onto the ONDC Network, alongside Kochi Metro, is a transformative step towards enhancing travel accessibility and convenience. By seamlessly connecting travelers to a diverse range of transportation options and ancillary services, we’re revolutionizing the travel landscape. Working with ONDC reflects our dedication to providing hassle-free travel solutions and improving accessibility for travelers nationwide. This initiative signifies a major advancement towards a unified digital ecosystem for travel, simplifying the journey and enhancing overall experiences. By aligning with ONDC’s mission to standardize and streamline the digital commerce ecosystem, we’re promoting interoperability, transparency, and fair competition, driving innovation and better services for all stakeholders. This reinforces our steadfast commitment to delivering seamless travel booking solutions.”

Unix Launches Two Made in India Smartwatches Breeze and Hydra Featuring BT Calling and Hindi Language Support

Mumbai, 5th April 2024: Unix, one of the fastest-growing mobile accessories and consumer electronics brands, introduces “Made in India” smartwatches – Breeze and Hydra, featuring BT Calling and Hindi language support, among other advanced features. Both smartwatches are offered in Silver, Black, and Rose Gold, with the Hydra model also offered in Black and the Hydra model accompanied by a complimentary metal strap. The smartwatches come with a 12-month warranty and are available for purchase at leading retail stores and e-commerce platforms – Flipkart, & the company Website.

The Unix Breeze and Hydra smartwatches, , respectively, boast a 1.8-inch and 2.1-inch IPS display, with screen resolutions of 240*286 and 320*285, blending style and utility for an unparalleled user experience. The intuitive full touchscreen interface ensures fluid interaction and easy navigation. Furthermore, with over 500+ watch faces to choose from, users can customize their experience to reflect their style and preferences effortlessly.

These smartwatches support Multiple sports modes and a comprehensive suite of health features, including real-time heart-rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, blood pressure monitoring, and sleep analysis Their smart notification feature keeps users informed of calls, messages, and app alerts, ensuring seamless connectivity. Additional functionalities include voice assistance, weather forecasts, camera control, music playback control, stopwatch, alarm, phone, and watch locating features, ensuring versatility and convenience for users. The smartwatches are compatible with Unix Fitz App (iOS and Android) for comprehensive health tracking.

The smartwatches support Bluetooth calling, facilitated by built-in microphones and a quick dial pad for seamless call management. They also play music via Bluetooth through a built-in speaker. Additionally, the smartwatches feature IP67 dust and water resistance for added durability. With an impressive battery life of up to 5 to 6 days, the smartwatches offer uninterrupted usage, providing users with convenience and reliability.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Imran Kagalwala stated, “We are excited about the launch of our Made in India smartwatches. These watches cater to the needs of GenZ, at a budgeted price point. They represent a seamless blend of style, functionality, and cultural inclusivity, reflecting our dedication to delivering cutting-edge technology with a touch of local culture.”

These smartwatches are proudly manufactured at Unix’s state-of-the-art 75,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Umbergaon, Gujarat, in alignment with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Lola Snacks Introduces Revolutionary Gut Health Product

New York, NY, April 05, 2024 –Today, Lola Snacks announced the launch of their Regulation Crowdfunding raise. With a commitment to innovation and wellness, Lola Snacks is redefining the way we think about health foods and snacks.

As the demand for gut health solutions continues to surge, Lola Snacks emerges as a beacon of hope for those seeking effective and natural remedies. Developed after extensive research and collaboration with leading experts from KerryGroup, Lola Snacks’ latest offering stands out as the most advanced gut health product on the market.

“We are thrilled to unveil our latest innovation on WeFunder,” said Mary Molina, Founder and CEO of Lola Snacks. “Our mission has always been to empower individuals to prioritize their health and well-being, and our gut health product is a testament to that commitment. We are proud to announce that we have already raised $100K in funding, and through WeFunder, we aim to further expand our reach and bring our revolutionary product to even more consumers.”

Backed by science and crafted with care, Lola Snacks’ gut health product boasts a proprietary blend of natural ingredients known for their digestive benefits. From promoting gut flora balance to enhancing nutrient absorption, this product offers comprehensive support for optimal digestive function.

In addition Lola Snacks delivers value in the bar category 2-fold, unlike any other bar on the market: as a better alternative to protein bars that are harsh the stomach and as a complement to protein bars because Lola Snacks nourishes the gut and helps maximize protein. The unrivaled effectiveness and commitment to transparency and sustainability sets it apart in the health food landscape. Through WeFunder, the company invites investors who share its vision of promoting wellness and environmental stewardship to join its mission.

“We believe that investing in Lola Snacks is not just an investment in a product, but an investment in a healthier future for individuals and the planet,” added Mary Molina “Together, we can redefine the standard for gut health and empower millions to live their best lives.”

Gwalior Airport accomplished construction excellence with eco-friendly Zinc Integration

The newly inaugurated Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Airport in Gwalior stands as a testament to visionary design and meticulous planning. Under the esteemed leadership of Prof. Charanjit S. Shah and Ar. Gurpreet S. Shah, from Creative Group LLP, this remarkable project, completed in a mere 16-month period. It stands as a testament to the exceptional collaboration and determination of all parties involved.

Gwalior Airport redefines excellence through its breathtaking architectural elements, featuring a sleek and modern terminal building alongside eco-friendly design features. Sustainable practices like solar panels, eco-friendly properties of Zinc, and rainwater harvesting systems reduce the carbon footprint, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious architecture. Zinc’s high reflectivity minimizes heat absorption, reducing the need for extensive cooling systems and lowering energy consumption. Additionally, the lightweight nature of zinc panels simplifies installation and reduces structural loads, further enhancing the airport’s sustainability profile.

Dr. Rahul Sharma, Director (India) of the International Zinc Association, emphasized the crucial role of infrastructure in driving a country’s growth and development. India is seeing massive infrastructure expansion because of the government’s efforts and notable projects. As per CECRI, India loses around 3 to 4% of GDP annually on account of corrosion. Driven by the imperative of ensuring the longevity and protection of a nation’s vital infrastructure, the International Zinc Association advocates for the adoption of durable and proven corrosion protection methods, such as structural galvanization in all their construction.”

“The success of the Gwalior Airport project stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity and sustainability led to the incorporation of zinc, a versatile metal with a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations, into the airport’s architectural elements. Regular brainstorming sessions and design workshops facilitated open communication and idea-sharing, allowing the team to overcome challenges and explore new possibilities.” Says Ar. Gurpreet S. Shah, Creative Group LLP

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, zinc plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable construction practices at Gwalior Airport. Its durability, corrosion resistance, and recyclability align with the airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship and energy efficiency. The roofing of the airport, crafted using zinc panels, epitomizes the perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and practicality. These panels not only provide weatherproofing and corrosion resistance but also contribute to the airport’s energy efficiency. As travelers embark on journeys through Gwalior Airport, they are greeted not only by world-class facilities and impeccable design but also by a commitment to sustainability and innovation.